Kill Devil Hills, N.C. — Community Grieves After 19-Year-Old Zane Hughes of Colington Identified as Victim in Fatal Avalon Pier Shooting
KILL DEVIL HILLS, N.C. – A quiet afternoon along the Outer Banks was shattered on Thursday, July 31, 2025, when a deadly shooting occurred in the parking lot adjacent to Avalon Pier, a popular oceanside destination frequented by locals and visitors alike. Authorities have now formally identified the victim as 19-year-old Zane Hughes, a resident of nearby Colington, whose life was cut tragically short in what police are calling a senseless act of violence.
The incident, which unfolded shortly after 2:30 p.m., has left the Kill Devil Hills community stunned and grieving, as investigators continue to piece together what led to the sudden burst of violence in an area typically known for its serenity, surf, and family-friendly charm.
🔍 Details of the Incident
According to the Kill Devil Hills Police Department (KDH PD), officers were dispatched to the scene following reports of multiple gunshots near the Avalon Pier parking lot. Upon arrival, officers found Zane Hughes suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel attempted life-saving measures, but Hughes was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with beachgoers and nearby pedestrians seeking cover as the sound of gunfire echoed across the area. Several people reported seeing a vehicle speeding away from the scene in the immediate aftermath, leading police to believe the suspect fled in a getaway car.
Authorities have confirmed that this appears to be an isolated incident, but have not yet publicly identified a suspect or motive. Surveillance footage is being reviewed from nearby businesses and traffic cameras, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward.
🧑🎓 Who Was Zane Hughes?
Zane Hughes was just 19 years old, with his whole life ahead of him. A recent graduate of First Flight High School, Zane was described by friends and family as kind-hearted, laid-back, and full of promise. He worked part-time at a local surf shop and had dreams of becoming a marine technician. His love for the ocean, fishing, and boating made him a natural part of the Outer Banks community.
“Zane was the kind of kid who lit up a room just by walking in,” said family friend Tina Marks, who watched him grow up alongside her own children. “He was respectful, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand.”
Those close to him say Zane had no known enemies and was not involved in any criminal activity, leaving many questioning how such a vibrant young life could be lost so suddenly.
His mother, Heather Hughes, gave a tearful statement outside their Colington home:
“He was my baby boy. He loved the water, his friends, and his family. We were planning his 20th birthday. Now I’m planning his funeral. I just want justice for my son.”
🧾 Investigation Underway
As of Friday morning, police had not made any arrests, but say they are pursuing multiple leads. KDH Police Chief Gary Britton emphasized that the investigation is active and ongoing, with assistance from the Dare County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.
“We are doing everything in our power to bring the person responsible for this heinous act to justice,” Chief Britton stated. “We urge the public to come forward if they saw or heard anything unusual around Avalon Pier yesterday afternoon.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Kill Devil Hills Police Department tip line or Dare County Crime Line at (252) 473-3111. Callers may remain anonymous.
💔 Community in Mourning
The news of Zane’s death has reverberated through the tight-knit Outer Banks community. A makeshift memorial has emerged near Avalon Pier, with flowers, candles, and handwritten notes placed in his honor. Friends and classmates have taken to social media to share tributes, memories, and messages of heartbreak.
Local churches and community groups have organized a vigil scheduled for Saturday evening at 7:30 p.m. on the beach near the pier, inviting everyone to bring candles and join in a moment of reflection and unity. Organizers say the gathering will honor Zane’s life and serve as a call for peace and accountability.
“This shouldn’t happen here,” said Pastor Jonathan Ellis of the Outer Banks Community Church. “We’ve lost a son, a friend, and a neighbor. And now we must come together to support his family and make sure this never happens again.”
⚖️ A Call for Justice
In the wake of this tragedy, Zane’s family has vowed to fight for justice and to ensure his story is not forgotten. A GoFundMe page has been launched to help cover funeral expenses and support the Hughes family during this painful time. In just 24 hours, the fundraiser had already exceeded its initial goal, a testament to how deeply Zane was loved.
His father, Mark Hughes, left a powerful message:
“If you knew Zane, you knew love. If you knew Zane, you knew peace. He didn’t deserve this — no child does. We want answers. We want justice. And we want to remember him not for how he died, but for how he lived.”
🕊️ Gone Too Soon, But Never Forgotten
As the investigation continues, the town of Kill Devil Hills is left grappling with a deep sense of loss. What should have been an ordinary summer day turned into a tragedy that will leave a lasting mark on the community. But in the outpouring of grief, there is also a rallying cry — for truth, for healing, and for the memory of Zane Hughes, a young man taken far too soon.
Rest in peace, Zane. Your light will never be extinguished.