Two Dead, Seven in Critical Condition After Shooting at North Carolina Party

Authorities in Robeson County, North Carolina, report that a mass shooting at a large outdoor party just outside the town of Maxton left two people dead and seven in critical condition. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, when gunfire erupted among a crowd of more than 150 attendees.

The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a total of 13 individuals suffered gunshot wounds. Two victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while seven others were transported to regional trauma centers in critical condition. Four additional people sustained injuries considered non-life-threatening and were treated at nearby hospitals.

Deputies responded after multiple 911 calls reported shots fired at the gathering, which was being held in a rural area off U.S. Highway 74 near Maxton. When officers arrived, the majority of partygoers had already fled. Investigators estimate that more than 150 people dispersed on foot and in vehicles within minutes of the first shots.

Detectives are working to determine the sequence of events that led to the violence. Early findings indicate the shooting was an isolated incident and not part of a broader threat to the community, according to the sheriff’s office. No information about potential suspects or a motive has been released, and authorities have not announced any arrests.

Crime scene technicians spent several hours collecting shell casings and documenting evidence across an expansive lawn where the party took place. The sheriff’s office said numerous firearms may have been discharged, and ballistic analysis will be used to identify the weapons involved.

Investigators are also interviewing witnesses and reviewing cell-phone video recorded at the event. Because many attendees left before deputies arrived, officials are urging anyone with firsthand information to come forward. Individuals who were present or who possess video or photographs related to the shooting are asked to contact Robeson County investigators at 910-671-3100 or email sheriff.wilkins@robesoncountysonc.gov.

Robeson County Emergency Medical Services coordinated with hospitals in Lumberton, Fayetteville and Laurinburg to manage patient transfers. The sheriff’s office noted that critical care teams were dispatched to stabilize victims during transport, reflecting the severity of injuries sustained.

Imagem: Internet

The location of the shooting is roughly 90 miles south of Raleigh and 25 miles north of the South Carolina border. Robeson County, one of the state’s most rural jurisdictions, has seen several large gatherings in unincorporated areas during recent weekends, though none previously resulted in mass casualties, officials said.

Saturday’s incident adds to a growing tally of mass shootings in the United States this year. According to the Gun Violence Archive, which tracks firearm incidents nationwide, the country has recorded hundreds of shootings involving four or more victims in 2025. Public safety agencies continue to emphasize the importance of community cooperation in investigations and the need for rapid medical response to improve survival rates.

As of late Saturday morning, sheriff’s detectives remained on scene, and additional patrols were assigned to the surrounding area as a precaution. Officials have stated that there is no ongoing danger to residents but advised anyone who observes suspicious activity to report it immediately.

The names of the deceased and injured have not been released pending notification of relatives. Autopsies will be conducted by the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

Crédito da imagem: Olga Yastremska/Adobe Stock