Maxton, North Carolina – October 26, 2025 – A festive Halloween celebration turned into tragedy early Saturday morning, October 25, 2025, when gunfire erupted at a large outdoor party in Robeson County, leaving two people dead and 13 others injured. According to officials, the shooting occurred during a gathering of more than 300 attendees in Maxton, sparking panic and chaos as deputies responded to the scene.
What Happened
The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that deputies were dispatched shortly after midnight following multiple reports of shots fired near a Halloween event. When law enforcement arrived, they encountered a chaotic scene with victims suffering from gunshot wounds and terrified partygoers fleeing into the night.
Authorities reported that two individuals—a 16-year-old minor and a 47-year-old adult—were pronounced dead at the scene, while 13 others sustained injuries, several of whom remain in critical condition at nearby hospitals.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the violence stemmed from an argument between two groups, which escalated into an exchange of gunfire. Sheriff Burnis Wilkins described the situation as “an isolated incident,” emphasizing that there is no ongoing threat to the community but acknowledging that the large, unregulated gathering complicated immediate response efforts.
The Investigation So Far
Investigators say the Halloween party attracted hundreds of people, many of whom fled before deputies could gather statements. Over 150 individuals reportedly left the scene, and officials have noted that some potential witnesses are refusing to cooperate with authorities.
The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by state and federal agencies, is actively reviewing surveillance footage, social media videos, and physical evidence collected at the scene, including shell casings. Detectives are urging anyone with photos, videos, or firsthand accounts of the shooting to come forward, stressing that community cooperation will be key to solving the case.
Sheriff Wilkins expressed frustration at the ongoing challenge of gun violence in the county:
“This was supposed to be a night of fun and celebration,” he said. “Instead, two families are grieving unimaginable losses, and many others are suffering both physically and emotionally. We must do better as a community to prevent tragedies like this.”
Community Reaction and Outpouring of Grief
Residents of Maxton and surrounding areas have been left shocked and heartbroken by the deadly shooting. Community leaders and clergy have called for unity, peace, and cooperation as law enforcement continues its investigation.
Several local churches and organizations have announced plans for candlelight vigils and counseling services to support the victims’ families and those traumatized by the event. Social media has since been filled with messages of grief and frustration, with residents calling for stronger safety measures at large gatherings and renewed efforts to combat gun violence.
One local resident wrote, “We’re heartbroken. This could have been anyone’s child, anyone’s friend. We have to stand together and stop this senseless violence.”
Public Safety Concerns and Next Steps
Officials noted that the intersection of large, unsupervised gatherings and firearms poses a growing public safety challenge in Robeson County. The Sheriff’s Office is reviewing event safety protocols and encouraging residents to report suspicious behavior or conflicts before they escalate.
Authorities continue to process the crime scene and analyze forensic evidence while coordinating with neighboring jurisdictions. As of Saturday evening, no arrests have been made, but Sheriff Wilkins and investigators remain confident that those responsible will be identified and brought to justice with the help of public cooperation.
A Tragic Reminder
The Robeson County Halloween party shooting stands as one of the deadliest mass shootings in the county’s recent history, underscoring the urgent need for community awareness, responsible event planning, and proactive violence prevention.
As the investigation continues, residents of Maxton are coming together in grief and solidarity — determined to honor the victims, support the injured, and ensure that this tragedy is never repeated.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The post Robeson County Halloween Party Shooting Leaves 2 Dead, 13 Injured in Maxton, North Carolina first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
