Zane Hughes Obituary, Death – A peaceful Outer Banks beach town is still reeling from a deadly shooting that occurred in the parking lot of Avalon Fishing Pier, leaving one teenager dead and another injured. The violent incident, which unfolded in broad daylight Thursday afternoon, has left the community in shock as investigators work to piece together what led to the tragedy.
According to police, the shooting happened at 2:37 p.m., and officers arrived on the scene within four minutes. Two teenagers had been shot—19-year-old Zane Hughes of Colington was pronounced dead at the scene, while a 15-year-old boy, who was visiting from out of state, was airlifted to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Authorities said the surviving teen was struck in the leg by a ricocheted bullet and has since been treated and released. He was later seen back at the pier, on crutches but in good spirits.
The suspect in the case has been identified as 16-year-old Henry Lee Hargis of Kill Devil Hills. He was arrested without incident by Southern Shores Police during a traffic stop at 3:19 p.m. the same day. Hargis is facing charges of first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, causing serious injury. Due to his age, he is currently being held in a juvenile detention center.
Police believe the shooting stemmed from an ongoing feud between the suspect and the victim. Investigators described the incident as a targeted act, not a random attack, and have emphasized that there is no continued threat to the public. However, they are keeping many details confidential to protect the integrity of the investigation.
The Avalon Fishing Pier released a statement on social media acknowledging that their property was used as the setting for the violent end of a conflict between two young individuals. They also confirmed that the injured bystander was hit by a stray bullet and praised his resilience in returning to the pier the next morning.
The mother of the 15-year-old survivor spoke off-camera to local media, explaining that her son was not involved in the dispute and was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. She expressed relief that her son survived but also sadness for the family of the young man who lost his life.
Witnesses on the scene played a crucial role in identifying the suspect, helping police locate and arrest him quickly. A vehicle and a weapon connected to the crime were also recovered. Assistant Police Chief Dana Harris confirmed that several agencies are working together to investigate the case thoroughly.
Family members of the injured teen, including his aunt Barbara Long, described the chaos that followed the shooting. Long recalled hearing the screams of Zane Hughes’ mother upon learning of her son’s death, a moment she said will stay with her forever. She expressed sympathy for the grieving family and gratitude that her nephew survived.
While a suspect is in custody, the investigation remains active, and many questions still remain unanswered. The community, known for its family-friendly reputation, is now grappling with the emotional aftermath of this tragedy.
