The tight-knit community of Southport, North Carolina, is reeling in grief after a tragic shooting at a popular waterfront bar claimed the lives of three people and left five others injured over the weekend.

On Wednesday, city officials released the names of the victims, painting a fuller picture of the devastating impact this act of violence has had on families both near and far.

The victims were identified as 36-year-old Solomon Banjo of Charlottesville, Virginia; 64-year-old Joy Rogers of Southport, North Carolina; and 56-year-old Michael Durbin of Galena, Ohio.

All three were patrons of the American Fish Company, a well-known restaurant and bar along the Cape Fear River, when shots rang out on Saturday night. Authorities allege that the suspect, 40-year-old Nigel Edge, a decorated Marine combat veteran and Purple Heart recipient, opened fire into the crowd.

Witnesses described a scene of chaos and fear as patrons scrambled for safety. Edge was arrested shortly after and has since been charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill.

He appeared in court Monday, where a judge ordered him held without bond. Prosecutors indicated they may pursue the death penalty. Among the victims, the life of Joy Rogers stands out as a heartbreaking example of a life cut short.

A devoted wife and mother of three, Joy had only recently moved with her husband, Lennie Rogers, to Southport to enjoy retirement. Known by many in the community, she was a familiar presence at Generations Church, where she was remembered as a woman whose faith and kindness touched many.

“Joy loved Jesus deeply, and because of that, she loved others deeply,” her husband shared in a statement to local CBS affiliate WECT. “She lived up to her name — her spirit radiated joy, light and kindness everywhere she went. Joy had a special gift for making people feel seen and welcomed. She was truly a vibrant part of the community and her family, and she will be dearly missed.”

Information about Banjo and Durbin remains limited, but both were remembered locally as friendly faces who, like Rogers, were enjoying an evening out before tragedy struck.

In response to the shooting, the community is coming together in mourning and solidarity. Generations Church announced that a prayer vigil will take place on Saturday, October 4, at the Southport Waterfront to honor the victims and provide comfort for grieving families. Organizers hope the vigil will serve as both a tribute to the lives lost and a reminder of the strength of the community in the face of tragedy.

While investigators continue to search for answers and the legal case against Edge unfolds, Southport residents remain focused on healing and remembering those who are gone too soon. The loss of Joy Rogers, Solomon Banjo, and Michael Durbin will leave a lasting mark on their families, friends, and all who knew them, but their memories will continue to live on in the hearts of those they touched.