At least 4 people were injured during a shooting that occurred at a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in North Carolina. The tragic incident unfolded on Union Street South in Concord at approximately 7:30 p.m. local time on Friday, November 21, as reported by the Concord Police Department (CPD) in a statement shared on Facebook. According to authorities, the CPD, Concord Fire, and Cabarrus County EMS personnel were present at the event and promptly intervened, offering medical assistance and ensuring the safe evacuation of attendees.
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The CPD disclosed that four individuals sustained gunshot wounds during the shooting, with three of them currently in critical condition. Shockingly, among the wounded were two suspected shooters, as confirmed by the police. Subsequent updates from the CPD clarified that the violence erupted between two suspects who were acquainted with each other, emphasizing that it was not a random act of aggression aimed at the public.
One of the suspected shooters was identified as 18-year-old Nasir Bostic, who remains critically injured. Warrants have been issued for Bostic’s arrest on charges of assault with a deadly weapon, inflicting serious injury with intent to kill, and inciting a riot. The second suspect, a juvenile also in critical condition, faces similar charges including assault with a deadly weapon and inciting a riot, as outlined by law enforcement officials.
Additionally, a third suspect named 17-year-old Keyvyonn Bostic has been charged with accessory after the fact and inciting a riot. Notably, Keyvyonn was not harmed during the shooting and was swiftly apprehended following the incident. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear at this juncture, with police asserting that they are not pursuing any other suspects in connection with the case, as indicated in their official news release.
Eyewitness video footage circulating online captured the chaotic scene as startled attendees fled upon hearing gunshots ringing out. The swift response and collaboration among downtown businesses, the public, first responders, and law enforcement were credited by CPD Chief Jimmy Hughes for averting further injuries and swiftly identifying all involved suspects amidst the upheaval.
Chief Hughes lamented, “A night of celebration for our community was interrupted by senseless violence, affecting everyone who was there.” He expressed gratitude for the coordinated efforts that facilitated the evacuation of the area and prevented further harm. PEOPLE has reached out to the CPD for additional insights into the ongoing investigation. The resilience shown by the community in the face of this tragedy underscores the unity and cooperation essential in moments of crisis.