News Summary
A shooting at Avalon Fishing Pier in Kill Devil Hills resulted in the death of 19-year-old Zane Hughes and injuries to a 15-year-old boy. The incident, described as targeted, led to the arrest of 16-year-old Henry Lee Hargis, who faces murder charges. Witnesses recount chaos as gunshots rang out, prompting safety concerns in the community known for its peaceful atmosphere. Families are left grappling with the tragedy as police investigation continues.
Kill Devil Hills, N.C. – A shooting at the Avalon Fishing Pier on Thursday afternoon has resulted in the death of one individual and serious injury to another. The incident took place around 2:37 p.m., when a 19-year-old man, Zane Hughes, was shot and killed on-site. A 15-year-old boy, who has not been named, suffered a gunshot wound to the thigh but is expected to recover.
The shooting is being described as an isolated and targeted act, with local police stating there is no ongoing threat to the public. The primary suspect, 16-year-old Henry Lee Hargis, has been charged with First-Degree Murder and Assault with a Deadly Weapon. After fleeing the scene, Hargis was captured with the help of Southern Shores Police, and a weapon was discovered in his vehicle upon arrest.
Emergency responders arrived quickly to aid the victims, but unfortunately, Hughes succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Family members reflected on the tragedy, with Hughes’ mother expressing profound sorrow and believing her son may have acted heroically during the event, potentially seeking to protect others.
Witnesses reported a scene of chaos, with multiple gunshots ringing out and witnesses describing people fleeing for safety as panic set in. The Avalon Pier, a beloved attraction known for its tranquil environment and family-friendly activities, was closed for the remainder of the day, marking a stark contrast to the usual peaceful atmosphere the area enjoys.
The local community is grappling with shock and sadness in the wake of this violence, particularly in a region that is predominantly known for its tourism and peaceful lifestyle. Residents are expressing concerns about safety following this unsettling event, which Assistant Chief of Police Dana Harris states is unprecedented in his 48 years of law enforcement experience.
Both families involved are currently reeling from the loss and trauma, seeking clarity on the circumstances that led to this tragic event. The police are actively investigating, having coordinated efforts with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and the Dare County Sheriff’s Office to gather more information.
Increased concern for public safety continues as the investigation unfolds. Residents and visitors alike are reflecting on the implications of such violence occurring in a typically safe locale, raising the question of what measures will be taken to prevent future incidents.
The Avalon Fishing Pier, a central gathering place in the community, is now a site of tragedy, leaving many to wonder how this could have happened in their neighborhood. With law enforcement on high alert, the community hopes for swift justice while grappling with the emotional aftermath of the event.
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Additional Resources
- WRAL News
- Wikipedia: Shooting
- WTKR News
- Google Search: Kill Devil Hills shooting
- Pilot Online
- Google Scholar: Outer Banks shooting
- Hindustan Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Violence
- WAVY News
- Google News: Avalon Fishing Pier shooting
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
