Tragedy Strikes Avalon Fishing Pier in Kill Devil Hills

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News Summary

A tragic shooting at the Avalon Fishing Pier in Kill Devil Hills, NC, resulted in the death of 19-year-old Zane Hughes and left a 15-year-old injured. The police arrested 16-year-old Henry Lee Hargis, who has been indicted on charges of murder. This incident has left the community in mourning and raised concerns about youth violence and conflict resolution.

KILL DEVIL HILLS, N.C. – A Shocking Incident

The tranquil waters of the Avalon Fishing Pier in Kill Devil Hills turned into a scene of tragedy on July 31, 2025, when reports of gunfire sent shockwaves through the community. This beloved spot for fishing enthusiasts became the backdrop for a violent incident that led to the death of a 19-year-old and left another person seriously injured.

What Happened?

It was around 2:37 PM when local authorities received a call about shots being fired at the pier. The response was swift and significant, with both police and EMS racing to the scene. Sadly, they found Zane Hughes, a 19-year-old local, deceased upon arrival. Meanwhile, a bystander—a 15-year-old—was shot and required immediate medical attention, leading to his airlift to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.

The Arrest

As the situation unfolded, it quickly became clear that this was no random act. The local police apprehended a suspect, 16-year-old Henry Lee Hargis, not far from the scene in Southern Shores, N.C. Upon searching his vehicle, officers recovered a weapon believed to be involved in the shooting.

Legal Proceedings Underway

By August 11, 2025, the Dare County Grand Jury had officially indicted Hargis on charges of first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon. Given his age, he is currently being held in a juvenile detention facility, with his next court appearance slated for October 13, 2025. This case has certainly sparked discussions about the responsibilities and consequences surrounding youth violence.

Community Impact

The ripple effects of this tragic event are being felt deeply within the Kill Devil Hills community. There is a strong sentiment of sorrow and a desire for healing, particularly for the family of Hughes, as residents call for memorial services to honor his life. The community’s emotional response underlines the profound impact such incidents have on small towns, where everyone knows each other.

The Background Story

It appears that there was *serious tension* between Hughes and Hargis leading up to the shooting. Sources from the community reveal that there was “bad blood” between the two, with indications of prior disputes. Hughes, despite previously facing legal issues, was supposedly working to turn his life around. The connection between Hughes and Hargis is believed to stem from a personal conflict that escalated tragically at the pier.

Investigative Action

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has joined local law enforcement in looking into the shooting. This collaboration aims to uncover the underlying circumstances that led to this chilling confrontation. A police report referencing a different home invasion also indicated that Hughes had been considered a suspect in previous events, hinting at a complicated background involving the two young men.

What Comes Next?

As the community grapples with this incident, many are left wondering how to prevent such tragedies in the future. They express concerns not only for Hughes but also for Hargis, highlighting a troubling cycle of violence that affects young people today. Moving forward, a focus on *open dialogues* around conflict resolution and support systems for at-risk youth may be needed.

Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving story, as the Kill Devil Hills community works to heal and seeks answers in the aftermath of this harrowing event.

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Additional Resources

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.