Three people have died and several others were injured after a shooter opened fire from a boat at a crowded waterfront bar in Southport, North Carolina, officials say.
The attack happened on Saturday evening outside the American Fish Company at the Southport Yacht Basin.
City spokesperson ChyAnn Ketchum stated that a boat docked at around 21:30 local time (01:30 GMT) before the attacker unleashed gunfire. Following the shooting, the assailant fled by boat towards the Intracoastal Waterway.
A suspect matching the description was apprehended approximately half an hour later by the US Coast Guard in nearby Oak Island, around 12 miles (19km) from the scene.
The identity of the suspect has not been disclosed by police.
Southport Police Chief Todd Coring expressed his sadness over the incident, calling it a very tragic night for the community. He emphasized that in a small town of under 4,000 residents, everybody knows everybody.
Reports indicate that about six people were injured in the attack and are currently receiving medical treatment in hospitals. The deceased victims have not yet been identified.
In response to the shooting, local officials issued a statement urging residents to stay indoors as the active shooter investigation unfolded. Chief Coring later reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
