Zane Hughes Identified as Victim in Fatal Outer Banks Pier Shooting

Zane Hughes Identified as Victim in Fatal Outer Banks Pier Shooting

Kill Devil Hills, N.C. – Kill Devil Hills police have formally identified 19‑year‑old Zane Hughes of Colington as the individual killed in a tragic shooting that unfolded at Avalon Pier on Thursday, July 31, 2025, shortly after 2:30 p.m., in the parking lot adjacent to the popular pier

The Incident

Witnesses reported that gunfire erupted in the Avalon Pier parking area, leaving Hughes fatally wounded. Another 15‑year‑old boy was also shot in the leg and was airlifted to a trauma center in Norfolk, Virginia. Remarkably, the minor returned to fishing at the pier the following day after being discharged from the hospital

Arrest and Charges

Within less than an hour of the shooting—by approximately 3:19 p.m.—authorities arrested 16‑year‑old Henry Hargis of Kill Devil Hills without incident in Southern Shores. Hargis is facing charges of first‑degree murder in connection with the death of Zane Hughes, as well as assault with a deadly weapon for the injury of the teenager  detention facility, held without bond

Community Response

The community has been shaken by the loss of a young life in such a public, everyday setting. Frequented by local anglers and families, Avalon Pier is a staple of Outer Banks culture and recreation. The police and local media updates underscore the abruptness and severity of the incident.

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