Disturbing Pattern Evolves From Latest String of Mass Shootings
Two devastating mass attacks over the weekend — one at a North Carolina bar, the other inside a Michigan church — left multiple victims dead and wounded. Authorities have now confirmed that both suspects were former Marines who served in Iraq under Operation Iraqi Freedom.
In Southport, North Carolina, police say Nigel Max Edge, 40 — who legally changed his name from Sean William Debevoise in 2023 — carried out a “highly premeditated” shooting late Saturday at a crowded waterfront bar.
Edge killed three people and injured five others before being taken into custody by the U.S. Coast Guard. He has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted murder, and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon.
Southport Police Chief Todd Coring said Edge acted alone: “This is highly premeditated, from what we’re seeing at this time, and we feel there are no other threats to our community.”
Military records show Edge served in the Marines from 2003 to 2009, reaching the rank of sergeant. He deployed twice to Iraq and was awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, and two bronze stars, among other commendations. Coring added that Edge described himself as a wounded combat veteran who struggled with PTSD.
Meanwhile, in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, a horrific act of violence unfolded on Sunday morning when Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, drove his Chevy Silverado through the front doors of a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during worship services.
Sanford then opened fire on hundreds of congregants, killing at least four people and injuring several others before setting the building ablaze with what investigators believe was gasoline.
Police Chief William Renye described the attack: “He drove his vehicle through the front doors of the church. He then exited his vehicle, firing several rounds at individuals within the church. Ten gunshot victims have been transported to local hospitals at this time, including one who has died.”
Responding officers exchanged fire with Sanford, ultimately killing him inside the burning church. Hours later, investigators discovered additional victims in the charred remains of the building.
The Marine Corps confirmed Sanford served from 2004 to 2008 as an automotive mechanic and vehicle recovery operator. He deployed to Iraq and left the service as a sergeant. His awards include the Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal.
Sanford was reportedly married with a son who suffers from a rare medical condition. A 2015 GoFundMe campaign raised funds to help the boy with treatment.
The near-simultaneous attacks underscore both the depth of the mental health crisis plaguing some of America’s veterans and the increasing brazenness of violent acts on U.S. soil. At a time when faith communities are under assault, the Michigan tragedy also highlights the vulnerability of churches — sacred spaces once seen as sanctuaries — to targeted violence.