On Thursday, July 31, 2025, at approximately 2:37 p.m., Dare Central Communications received a report of gunfire involving two injured individuals in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. Within just four minutes, officers from the Kill Devil Hills Police Department, along with numerous local law enforcement partners, arrived on the scene and discovered a tragic situation: a deceased male victim. The individual was later identified as 19-year-old Zane Hughes, a resident of Colington, NC.
Swift Multi-Agency Response and Suspect Apprehension
Thanks to the rapid and coordinated efforts of multiple agencies, authorities quickly identified the suspect as 16-year-old Henry Lee Hargis of Kill Devil Hills. Less than an hour after the incident, at approximately 3:19 p.m., officers with the Southern Shores Police Department conducted a traffic stop, resulting in the arrest of Hargis without incident.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Following close collaboration between the Kill Devil Hills Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office for the First Prosecutorial District of North Carolina, it has been formally determined that Hargis will face serious charges including:
- First-Degree Murder
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill Inflicting Serious Injury
Because of his age, Hargis is currently held in a juvenile detention facility as proceedings move forward.
Investigation Status and Public Safety Assurance
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that this was an isolated and targeted incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the public. The investigation remains active and ongoing, with officers diligently processing evidence, conducting witness interviews, and working alongside partner agencies to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
The Kill Devil Hills Police Department emphasizes their commitment to transparency and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism in order to uphold public trust. However, in order to protect the integrity of the investigation, officials have requested the public’s understanding that certain details are being withheld at this time.
Community Impact and Gratitude
The department extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Zane Hughes, recognizing the profound loss and grief felt by the community.
Additionally, the Kill Devil Hills Police Department wishes to sincerely thank the numerous agencies that provided swift and professional assistance throughout the response and investigation, including:
- Kill Devil Hills Fire Department
- Dare Central Communications
- Dare County EMS and Dare MedFlight
- Dare County Sheriff’s Office
- Nags Head Police Department
- Kitty Hawk Police Department
- Southern Shores Police Department
- North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation
- North Carolina Highway Patrol
- District Attorney’s Office of the First Prosecutorial District of NC
- Currituck County Sheriff’s Office
- Currituck Communications
Moving Forward
The tragic loss of 19-year-old Zane Hughes has deeply affected the Kill Devil Hills community. Authorities reaffirm their commitment to ensuring justice is served and to fostering a safe environment for residents and visitors alike. As the investigation progresses, law enforcement will continue to provide updates as appropriate, urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the pursuit of justice.
For further information or to provide tips, please contact the Kill Devil Hills Police Department.
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