Who is Nigel Edge? NC Shooter and Decorated Marine with Troubled Past

A quiet North Carolina town was left in shock after a mass shooting at a popular waterfront restaurant claimed three lives and injured eight more. The gunman, Nigel Max Edge, a decorated Marine veteran, is now facing multiple charges, and disturbing details about his past are coming to light.

Who is Nigel Edge?

Nigel Edge, 39, is a former US Marine who served from 2003 to 2009. Military records show that he completed two tours in Iraq and was awarded several honors, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Stars, Combat Action Ribbon, and Iraq Campaign Medal.

Before 2023, he was known as Sean William DeBevoise. He legally changed his name and later filed several unusual lawsuits in North Carolina courts, many filled with conspiracy theories.

The Shooting in Southport

On Saturday night, Edge allegedly opened fire at the American Fish Company restaurant in Southport Yacht Basin. Witnesses say he used a modified AR-style rifle with a suppressor and scope.

Three people died in the attack, while eight others were wounded. One victim remains in critical condition. Authorities described the assault as “highly premeditated.”

After the shooting, Edge tried to flee by water. He was captured by the US Coast Guard near Oak Island and is now being held without bond at the Brunswick County Detention Center.

Charges Against Nigel Edge

Police confirmed Edge faces:

• Three counts of first-degree murder

• Five counts of attempted murder

• Five counts of assault with a deadly weapon

He is due in court for his first hearing on Monday, September 29, 2025.

A Troubled Past and Mental Health Struggles

Edge’s ex-wife, Rachel Crowl, who divorced him in 2009, spoke out after the shooting. She told NBC News that Edge had long struggled with mental health and PTSD.

“He was crying for help for a long time,” she said. “I’m sad for the families. I’m also sad nobody helped him when maybe this could have been prevented.”

Edge’s past also shows signs of instability. Earlier this year, he filed lawsuits against a church and a medical center, accusing them of being part of wild conspiracies against him. All cases were dismissed.

Community Shock

Southport Police Chief Todd Coring called the attack “tragic” for the small community. He asked residents to keep the victims and their families in their prayers.

Local officials confirmed Edge had no major criminal history but was known to law enforcement in Oak Island for minor issues and bizarre legal filings.