Tragic Loss in Kill Devil Hills: 17-Year-Old Zane Hughes Fatally Shot, Community Grieves
KILL DEVIL HILLS, N.C. — A heartbreaking wave of sorrow has engulfed the Outer Banks community following the devastating news that Zane Hughes, a 17-year-old student at First Flight High School, was fatally shot on Thursday, July 31, 2025. What began as a quiet summer day in Kill Devil Hills turned tragic, leaving a family shattered, classmates in mourning, and a town grappling with the senseless loss of one of its own.
Authorities confirmed that the shooting occurred in the late afternoon hours near a residential area not far from the school campus. Emergency services responded swiftly, but despite their best efforts, Zane succumbed to his injuries at the scene. An investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement working tirelessly to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting and to bring accountability to those responsible.
A Life Cut Far Too Short
Zane Hughes was more than just a student—he was a son, a brother, a friend, and a bright soul whose presence lit up every room he entered. Known for his sharp sense of humor, compassionate nature, and easygoing smile, Zane left an unforgettable impression on everyone he encountered. Whether it was on the school campus, at the skate park, or hanging out with friends at the beach, Zane carried with him an energy that made people feel welcome and seen.
He was passionate about music and often spent time creating beats, sketching designs, or dreaming up ideas for his future. Teachers at First Flight High School remember him as an intelligent, curious young man with a creative spirit and a growing voice. Friends describe him as loyal and thoughtful—someone who always had their back and wasn’t afraid to speak up for what he believed in.
“Zane was the kind of kid who made you feel like you mattered,” said one classmate. “He had this way of lifting people up without even trying.”
A Community in Grief
As word of Zane’s death spread through the close-knit Outer Banks community, expressions of grief, disbelief, and love poured in from across Kill Devil Hills and beyond. Vigils have already begun to take shape, with flowers, candles, notes, and photos placed near the site of the tragedy and outside First Flight High School. Hundreds have taken to social media to share tributes, recount memories, and express sorrow over a life taken far too soon.
The Dare County School District released a statement mourning Zane’s death and offering counseling services to students, staff, and families impacted by the tragedy.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our school family and community,” the statement read. “We extend our deepest condolences to Zane’s family and friends, and we will stand with them in this time of unimaginable grief.”
Seeking Justice, Seeking Peace
Local authorities, including the Kill Devil Hills Police Department, have launched a full investigation into the circumstances of the shooting. While officials have not yet released the name of a suspect or motive, they are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in ensuring justice is served.
“Our hearts are with the Hughes family,” said one officer at a press conference. “This is the kind of tragedy that shakes the soul of a community. We are doing everything in our power to investigate thoroughly, compassionately, and swiftly.”
Remembering Zane
Plans are currently underway for a memorial service and community vigil in Zane’s honor. Family members are asking for privacy as they navigate their grief, but they expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from neighbors, friends, and schoolmates. In lieu of flowers, the family is encouraging donations to organizations that work to prevent youth violence and support mental health and trauma recovery among teens.
As Kill Devil Hills moves forward in the days ahead, Zane Hughes’ memory will remain a guiding light—reminding all of the importance of compassion, community, and the urgent need to create a safer world for the next generation.
Rest in peace, Zane. You are deeply loved, endlessly missed, and never forgotten.