MAXTON, N.C. — Two people were killed and 11 others wounded early Saturday after gunfire erupted at a large party in rural Robeson County, according to the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office.
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Deputies said the shooting happened at a residence on Dixon Drive, just outside Maxton, in a secluded neighborhood at the end of a dirt road.
During a Saturday afternoon news conference, Sheriff Burnis Wilkins identified the victims as Jessie Locklear Jr., 49, and Nehemiah Locklear, 16, both of Lumberton.
Wilkins said the gathering drew people ranging in age from pre-teens to adults in their 50s and included “a lot of underage people.”
Deputies said 11 additional victims — ranging in age from 17 to 43 — were treated for gunshot wounds. Several remain in critical condition, and at least one person was airlifted to a hospital.
Investigators estimate that more than 150 people fled the scene before deputies arrived.
Wilkins said the event did not have a required permit for a large gathering, meaning local law enforcement was unaware of the party until the shooting was reported.
“If there had been a permit, there would have been security and law enforcement aware of the event,” Wilkins said.
The sheriff’s office said the shooting appears to be an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office at 910-671-3100 or email [email protected].
