Who Is Brian Reed Grant? Man Arrested for Fatal Shooting of Southport Locksmith Randy Stewart on July 23

A 61-year-old Southport man was shot and killed in Oak Island, North Carolina, during a service call on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. The victim, Randy Stewart, was the owner of a local locksmith business. Police say the suspect is Brian Reed Grant, a 40-year-old Oak Island resident.

What Happened?

At 6:18 p.m. on Wednesday, officers from the Oak Island Police Department were dispatched to a home following a 911 call. When they arrived, they found Stewart dead inside the house.

Officials believe the shooting happened while Stewart was responding to a locksmith service call at the residence. The homeowner, Brian Grant, was quickly identified as the suspect. He was arrested at the scene and charged with murder.

Who Is Brian Reed Grant?

Brian Reed Grant, 40, is the homeowner of the property where the shooting occurred. Police have not released further details about his background or motive. As of Thursday, Grant is being held at the Brunswick County Detention Center without bond. He is scheduled to appear in court at 2:00 p.m. on July 24.

Police Say It Was an Isolated Incident

In a public statement, the Oak Island Police Department confirmed the shooting was an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the community. Officials also corrected false reports that had circulated on social media about multiple victims.

“There was only one victim,” the department emphasized in its statement. “Reports of more than one person being shot are inaccurate and were never confirmed by our office.”

Who Was Randy Stewart?

Randy Stewart, 61, was a Southport resident and business owner. He operated a locksmith service in the Brunswick County area and was reportedly working at the Oak Island home when the shooting occurred.

No further details about his personal life or business were released at the time of publication.

What Happens Next?

The case is now being handled by the Brunswick County Court system. Grant will make his first court appearance on Thursday, July 24 at 2:00 p.m.. The Oak Island Police Department has stated they will not issue additional updates on the investigation at this time.