At least Two people died and seven others remain in critical condition after a mass shooting occurred early Saturday morning at a party at a home in Maxton, Robeson County, North Carolina.
According to the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, A total of 13 people were shot in the incident that occurred around 1:15 a.m.in a celebration where it is estimated that there were more than 150 attendees.
A party that ended in tragedy
Officers initially responded to a report of loud music, but as they headed to the scene they began receiving multiple calls alerting about gunshots. When they arrived, they found a chaotic scene with dozens of people fleeing the scene and multiple injuries.
Authorities identified the fatal victims as Jessie Locklear Jr., 49, and Nehemiah Locklear, 16.
Several of the victims were taken to Scotland Health Care Center in Laurinburg and UNC Health Southeastern Medical Center in Lumberton. One person was later taken to another medical facility with life-threatening injuries, according to the sheriff’s office.
The surviving victims are between 17 and 43 years old, some remain hospitalized with serious injuries and others have already been discharged.
Investigation underway and witnesses called
Sheriff Burnis Wilkins described the incident as a new case of senseless armed violence that mourns the community.
“What makes it even more disturbing is the presence of teenagers, alcohol and weapons at a large party,” Wilkins stated. “Those responsible for this reckless and ruthless act must be held accountable.”
The sheriff’s office asked anyone with information about the case to call 910-671-3100 or sheriff.wilkins@robesoncountysonc.gov.
Authorities assured that this was an isolated incident and that there is no active threat to residents of the area.
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