Legal proceedings paused for Nigel Max Edge as state experts deem suspect unfit for trial
By BC News Staff Writer
SOUTHPORT, NC – A Brunswick County Superior Court judge has stalled the prosecution of Nigel Max Edge, the suspect accused in the September 2025 shooting at the American Fish Company, ordering him to undergo intensive psychiatric treatment.
Tuesday, April 7, 2026, Judge Jason Disbrow ruled that Edge is currently mentally incapable of proceeding to trial. The decision follows unanimous evaluations from three mental health experts, including a state-appointed examiner who concluded that Edge lacks the capacity to understand the legal proceedings or assist his defense team.
Edge, a 41-year-old Marine veteran, faces three counts of first-degree murder following the waterfront ambush that claimed three lives and wounded many.
His defense has previously highlighted a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and PTSD stemming from his military service, noting that Edge still has a bullet lodged in his brain from his time in Iraq.
The court order mandates Edge’s transfer to Cherry Hospital, a state psychiatric facility in Goldsboro. There, clinicians will attempt to “restore capacity” through medication and therapy.
The ruling has drawn a mix of somber understanding and frustration from the victims’ families. District Attorney Jon David, who met with the families following the hearing, noted that while the delay is difficult, North Carolina law prohibits the prosecution of a defendant who is mentally incompetent.
The suspension of the case also postpones a critical decision on whether the state will seek the death penalty. Prosecution remains on hold indefinitely until hospital officials notify the court that Edge’s competency has been restored.
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