MAXTON, N.C. (BN24) — Two people were killed and seven others were critically injured early Saturday in a mass shooting at a large house party in southeastern North Carolina, authorities said.
The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies were called to a home just outside Maxton at around 1:15 a.m. after receiving complaints of loud music. While en route, multiple 911 calls came in reporting that several individuals had been shot at the location.
When deputies arrived, they found a chaotic scene with more than 150 people fleeing the area. Thirteen people were ultimately confirmed to have been shot, according to Sheriff Burnis Wilkins.
Two victims, identified as 49-year-old Jessie Locklear Jr. and 16-year-old Nehemiah Locklear, were pronounced dead at the scene. The sheriff’s office said several other victims were transported to Scotland Health Care in Laurinburg and UNC Health Southeastern Medical Center in Lumberton. One person with life-threatening injuries was later transferred to another medical facility for advanced treatment.
Officials said some of the victims suffered non-life-threatening wounds and were treated and released, while others remain hospitalized in critical condition. The surviving victims range in age from 17 to 43.
Sheriff Wilkins described the incident as “a senseless act of gun violence” and said investigators are working to identify everyone involved. “What makes this even more disturbing is the involvement of teenagers, alcohol, and guns at a large house party,” Wilkins said in a statement. “Those responsible for this reckless and heartless act must be held accountable. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this tragic event.”
Authorities said the shooting appeared to be an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing threat to the community. The sheriff’s office urged anyone with information to contact investigators at 910-671-3100 or email sh*************@ro***************.gov .
The investigation remains active as detectives interview witnesses and review evidence collected from the scene.
