Additional Coverage:
Concord Tree Lighting Ceremony Marred by Gunfire, Four Injured
CONCORD, NC – A festive evening intended to celebrate the annual tree lighting in downtown Concord on Friday night quickly turned to chaos when a shooting erupted, leaving four individuals injured, three of them critically. The incident, which police say was not a random act of violence, occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Union Street S, approximately 30 miles northeast of Charlotte.
According to the Concord Police Department, the shooting involved two suspects “who are known to each other.” While a motive has not been released, the swift response of Concord Police, Fire, and Cabarrus County EMS personnel, who were already present at the event, was credited with providing immediate medical aid and evacuating attendees.
Prior to the gunfire, videos from the scene depicted hundreds of community members enjoying live music and artificial snow, setting a joyful holiday atmosphere. However, the sounds of gunshots quickly led to widespread panic, with people scattering as emergency sirens filled the air.
Among the injured, one 17-year-old victim remains in critical condition, while another 17-year-old has since been released from the hospital.
Police have identified two primary suspects: 18-year-old Nasir Ahmad Bostic and an unnamed minor. Both were critically injured in the shooting.
Warrants have been issued for Nasir Bostic’s arrest on charges of assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury with intent to kill and inciting a riot. He will be taken into custody upon his release from the hospital.
Petitions have been filed through the North Carolina Division of Juvenile Justice regarding the minor suspect, including charges of assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury with intent to kill, two counts of discharging into an occupied property inflicting serious injury, and inciting a riot. Due to North Carolina privacy laws, no identifying information about the minor will be released.
A third suspect, 17-year-old Keyvyonn Rayshaund Bostic, has been charged as an adult with accessory after the fact and inciting a riot. He was not injured in the incident and was arrested shortly afterward.
Concord Police Chief Jimmy Hughes expressed his dismay at the events: “A night of celebration for our community was interrupted by senseless violence, affecting everyone who was there. Our community showed great strength and resilience as everyone came together to help one another and our officers. Due to the quick actions of our downtown businesses, the public, first responders, and law enforcement, we were able to quickly evacuate the area, prevent additional injuries, and identify all suspects involved.”
Authorities are encouraging anyone with videos or photos from the scene to submit them as the investigation remains ongoing.