A Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Concord, North Carolina, was shaken by gunfire Friday night, leaving at least four people injured.
The shooting happened around 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 21 along Union Street South, according to the Concord Police Department. Officers, firefighters, and EMS crews were already on site for the event and responded immediately, providing medical care and helping evacuate attendees.
All four victims suffered gunshot wounds and were taken to a hospital. Three were listed in critical condition. Police said two of those injured are believed to be the shooters.
Investigators later said the gunfire stemmed from an altercation between two people who knew each other and emphasized that it was not a random attack aimed at the public.
Police identified one suspected shooter as 18-year-old Nasir Bostic. He was among the wounded and remains in critical condition. Warrants have been issued for his arrest on charges including assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, inflicting serious injury, and inciting a riot. Authorities said he will be served once he is released from the hospital.
The second suspected shooter is a juvenile who was also injured and remains in critical condition. Police said the juvenile faces charges including assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, inflicting serious injury, two counts of discharging a firearm into an occupied property, and inciting a riot.
A third suspect, 17-year-old Keyvyonn Bostic, was arrested shortly after the incident and charged with accessory after the fact and inciting a riot. He was not injured.
Video shared online showed people fleeing the area in confusion after shots rang out. The motive has not been determined, and police say they are not looking for any additional suspects.
“A night of celebration for our community was interrupted by senseless violence, affecting everyone who was there,” Police Chief Jimmy Hughes said. He credited the quick response of local businesses, bystanders, first responders, and officers for helping clear the area swiftly, limiting further harm, and identifying those involved.
