09/22/2026
Southport Cares Mass Shooting One-Year Anniversary Update: 9/22/26
As we approach the one-year anniversary of the tragic mass shooting in Southport, we want to share updates on upcoming events honoring and remembering those who were killed, injured, or otherwise affected. We also want to provide a financial update on how donated funds have been distributed so far and to thank the many people and organizations whose generosity has supported Southport Cares and those impacted by the shooting.
A) Financial Update (As of 9/22/26)
• Funds raised to date – Since the shooting, the community has raised and donated $353,953.35 to Southport Cares to support the victims. This remarkable total was raised largely within the first four months after the shooting.
• Funds distributed to date – Southport Cares has distributed 85.6% of the funds received, totaling $302,978.13, to victims across the following four groups:
1. Families of the deceased (3 families)
2. Wounded patrons 8
3. Impacted employees at American Fish and Frying Pan (24)
4. Support for survivors and memorials honoring the victims.
• Future funding – The remaining funds are currently expected to be used as follows, subject to change based on need:
- $35,000 is being held in reserve for ongoing support for individuals still receiving medical care, including surgeries and rehabilitation, as well as continued support for the families of those who died. We remain in close contact with these individuals and families to assess their needs.
- The remaining balance will likely support the survivors’ group, including future meetings and memorial efforts honoring those killed and affected by the shooting.
- We remain committed to distributing 100% of the funds received to the four groups identified above as the intended recipients. We will continue to provide periodic financial updates until all funds have been distributed.
- 100% of donations go to victims – As a reminder, the Southport Cares board covers all banking, PayPal, and related expenses so every donated dollar goes directly to victims. To date, the board has paid $1,281.53 in PayPal and banking fees, $2,850.00 for 2025 tax preparation, and $155.25 for additional insurance coverage related to fundraising efforts for victims of the mass shooting.
B) This Community Came Together to Show Victims They Were Not Alone
Our hearts remain with everyone who was present during last year’s shooting. No one could have imagined such a tragedy happening in Southport, but it did. Lives were lost, patrons were wounded, some continue to receive medical treatment, and everyone there that night has had to carry the weight of the unthinkable. Each person’s recovery looks different and brings its own challenges, but survivors continue to support one another and receive support from loved ones, friends, and the community.
The survivors have not forgotten how the community rallied around them. Flowers and memorials appeared throughout Southport. Local restaurants and bars hosted fundraisers that raised an extraordinary amount of money and brought people together in support of the victims, reminding them they were not alone.
Retail businesses, neighborhoods, children, and many others also organized fundraisers. Individual donors, both large and small, stepped forward to help neighbors in need. Our “community” has proven to be larger than we often realize, with donations arriving from across the country, including Texas, Alaska, and California. Southport Cares continues to work with survivors, and we believe the community’s response has made a meaningful difference for survivors and the families of those who died. They know we are here for them.
C) Memorial Remembrances: 9/27/26
The first event will be a memorial tree dedication and ceremony honoring those who were killed, injured, and affected. The event is open to the public, and attendees are welcome to bring flowers or other items to place at the base of the memorial trees. Details are below:
• Sunday, September 27, 2026 @ 2PM
• Taylor Field Park, 409 E. Nash Street, Southport
• Rain or shine (Parking limited)
The second event will be a public prayer vigil. Details are below:
• Sunday, September 27, 2026 @ 6PM
• Southport Baptist Church, 200 N. Howe Street, Southport
On behalf of the Southport Cares board and our local first responders, thank you for all you have done to support our neighbors in need. We are proud and honored to be part of this community. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at [email protected].
Tom Lott – Southport Cares Founder/Chairman
New Fundraisers 2026 (For General Fund and Shooting Victims Fund)
o Allison Fox
o Kim Moss – Southport Realty
o Ocean Crest Fishing Pier
o Renee's Fine Jewelry
o Cape Fear Fitness
o Southport Coffee Company
o Living Word Bible Church
o Ted Todorov and Ken Schnedetz organizers of the singer/songwriter events “Front Row Seat”
o NC Fourth of July Festival
Previous Fundraisers 2025 (For Shooting Victims Fund)
o All the participants of the Southport Strong Event
o Koko Cabana / Fizzy Janes
o The Mullet Bar
o Fishy Fishy Café and Edgewater Restaurant
o Tree House Customs
o Gooney Birds
o Cape Fear Radio
o The Christmas House
o Tipsy Tuna
o United Carolinas Cavalry
o Oak Island Moose Lodge 2059
o The Tiki Tavern
o Provision Company
o Wally Simpson – Future Loans/Trust Mortgage
o The Pub of Southport
o Cape Fear Poker Run Crew
o Stingray Creations
o Jeb Hardison
o Residents of the Lakes at Pine Forest
o Salt and Sparrow Village Shoppes Cottage B
o Cape Fear Cruisers Car Club
o Irwin Drive Neighbors
o River Sea Plantation Cares Club
o Haleigh Moore fundraiser
o Focus on You Hair and Photography
o Katie Lewis
Companies/Organizations That Donated
o VFW Oak Island Post 10226
o Southport Rotary Club
o Up Your Arts
o Farmers Insurance
o Brunswick Partnership for Housing
o The Clubs at St James
o Trinity United Methodist Church
o Sysko Corporation
o Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehab Center
o Lexipol
o Gilbert Foodservice
o Bug N A Rug Exterminators
o State Employees Credit Union
o Dots on Howe
o Flavas
o Hoffman Eco Works
