13 Shot, 2 Killed at Large Party in Maxton, North Carolina

Deputies in Robeson County, North Carolina, are investigating a mass shooting that occurred early Saturday morning during a large party just outside the town of Maxton.

According to the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, dispatchers received multiple calls about gunfire on Dixon Drive near Maxton at approximately 1:15 a.m. Saturday. When deputies arrived, more than 150 people were leaving the area.

Sheriff Burnis Wilkins said investigators learned that a flyer had circulated promoting a large Halloween party featuring a DJ and alcohol. He said about 300 people were believed to be at the event when the shooting started.

Authorities confirmed that 13 people were shot, with two victims dead. The deceased were identified as Jessie Locklear Jr., 49, and Nehemiah Locklear, 16, both residents of Lumberton, North Carolina.

Several other victims were transported to Scotland Health Care in Laurinburg and UNC Health Southeastern Medical Center in Lumberton for treatment.

Sheriff Wilkins stated that witness accounts indicate multiple individuals were shooting at each other, firing into the crowd without regard for bystanders. No arrests have been made, but the sheriff said there are persons of interest in the case.

Wilkins added that some individuals who attended the party have not cooperated with investigators, which he noted is hindering progress in the investigation. The sheriff’s office has asked anyone with video footage or information to contact investigators at 910-671-3100.

The investigation remains active as deputies continue to collect evidence and interview witnesses.