Wilmington Police Investigate Shooting That Left One Person Seriously Injured; Suspect Still at Large
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Wilmington, NC – July 6, 2025 — The Wilmington Police Department has launched a full-scale investigation after a shooting left one person seriously injured late Saturday night, shaking a local neighborhood and prompting renewed concerns about public safety in the area.
According to a press release from the Wilmington Police Department (WPD), officers were dispatched to the scene around 10:45 p.m. following reports of gunfire near the intersection of 7th and Dawson Streets, a residential area not far from downtown. Upon arrival, officers found a male victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Emergency medical services quickly responded and transported the victim to New Hanover Regional Medical Center, where he remains in serious but stable condition, police said.
As of Sunday morning, authorities have not released the name of the victim, citing privacy and the ongoing nature of the investigation. Detectives are actively working to gather details about what led up to the shooting and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
“Right now, we’re following up on leads, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing any available surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses,” said Lt. Brittany Rawls, a spokesperson for the department. “This kind of violence is unacceptable in our community, and we’re doing everything we can to find out who’s responsible.”
Initial reports suggest the victim may have been targeted, but police have not confirmed a motive. It is also unclear at this time whether the shooting stemmed from a personal dispute, gang activity, or another cause. No arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified.
Neighbors described hearing multiple gunshots, followed by the sound of people yelling and the screech of tires as a vehicle sped away. “It was terrifying,” said one nearby resident who asked to remain anonymous. “I heard four or five shots, then saw someone lying in the street. I called 911 immediately.”
The incident has rattled the neighborhood, where many residents say they’ve noticed a recent increase in crime. “This used to be a quiet area,” another resident said. “Now, people are afraid to sit on their porches at night. Something has to change.”
Wilmington Police have increased patrols in the area and say they are committed to working with community organizations to address violence through both enforcement and prevention efforts.
In recent months, Wilmington has experienced a troubling series of shootings, prompting calls for stronger gun control measures, expanded youth outreach programs, and more mental health resources. City leaders have vowed to tackle the violence through a coordinated approach, bringing together law enforcement, public health experts, clergy, and local nonprofits.
“This is about more than just crime—it’s about community healing and building safer neighborhoods,” said Mayor Bill Saffo in a statement following the incident. “We won’t tolerate this violence, and we stand with those affected.”
The Wilmington Police Department is asking anyone with information about Saturday’s shooting to contact the WPD Tip Line at (910) 343-3609 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at (800) 531-9845. Tips that lead to an arrest may be eligible for a reward.
As the investigation continues, the city of Wilmington holds its breath — hoping for answers, healing, and a future free from the threat of violence.