A family is in mourning after 19-year-old Zen Hughes, a resident of Colington Island, was tragically killed in a shooting on Thursday afternoon at the Avalon Fishing Pier on the Outer Banks. His mother, Nicole Hassell, has spoken out about her son’s life, grief, and a call for change in the wake of his untimely death.
MISSING PERSON ALERT: Saidee, 31, Last Seen in Brockville, Ontario
What Happened?
At approximately 2:00 p.m. on August 3, emergency responders were called to the Avalon Fishing Pier following reports of gunfire. Zen Hughes, 19, was found fatally shot at the scene. A 15-year-old boy was also injured, sustaining a gunshot wound to the leg. He was airlifted to a hospital in Norfolk, Virginia, where he remains under medical care.
Witnesses say an argument occurred near the pier’s parking area involving individuals in a suspicious vehicle. Moments later, shots were fired, striking both teenagers.
Who Was Zen Hughes?
Zen Hughes was a vibrant 19-year-old from Colington Island. According to his mother, Nicole Hassell, Zen was full of life and deeply loved by those around him. Fighting back tears, Nicole shared how she received the devastating phone call.
“When the phone rang, I just knew it was something terrible,” she said. “Zen was my heart. This pain is something I wouldn’t wish on anyone.”
Timeline of Events
- August 3, 2025, around 2:00 p.m. – Shooting occurs at Avalon Fishing Pier.
- 15-year-old boy also shot and airlifted to Norfolk, VA.
- 3:19 p.m. – 16-year-old suspect, Henry Lee Hargis of Kill Devil Hills, is arrested during a traffic stop by Southern Shores Police.
Authorities have charged Hargis with first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon.
A Mother’s Plea for Change
In the days since Zen’s death, his mother has begun advocating for stricter gun control laws, stating:
“This can’t keep happening. We need laws that actually protect our kids. I want my son’s name to mean something—to save lives.”
Nicole and other family members are calling on both state and federal leaders to address illegal firearm access and youth gun violence.
Public Reaction & Support
Zen’s death has shaken the Outer Banks community, with an outpouring of grief and outrage shared across social media. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help the family with funeral expenses, and dozens have already donated in support.
Friends and neighbors have left candles, photos, and messages of love near the pier where Zen lost his life.
What’s Next?
The investigation is ongoing. Henry Lee Hargis, currently being held at a juvenile detention center, is expected to appear in court in the coming days.
Authorities continue to gather evidence and are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Southern Shores Police Department.
How to Help
If you would like to support Zen’s family, donations are being accepted via GoFundMe (link pending official confirmation). Every contribution will help cover funeral costs and assist the family during this difficult time.
Conclusion
Zen Hughes’ life was tragically cut short, and a community mourns alongside a mother’s heartbreak. His family is determined to ensure his death is not in vain—and that change comes from this senseless tragedy.
This article will be updated as more details become available.
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