Concord Police: Tree Lighting Shooting Stemmed From Dispute Between Known Individuals

All parties have been accounted for, authorities say, as multiple suspects face charges and three victims remain in critical condition.

Concord Police say Friday’s shooting at the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony was an isolated incident between two individuals who knew each other — not a random act of violence directed at the public, according to a City of Concord news release early Saturday morning.

Investigators have now accounted for all parties involved in the shooting, which occurred around 7:30 p.m. outside 2 Gals Kitchen in downtown Concord.

“A night of celebration for our community was interrupted by senseless violence, affecting everyone who was there,” Concord Police Chief Jimmy Hughes said in a statement. “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.”

With the support and information provided by the public, the police have identified 18-year-old Nasir Ahmad Bostic of Concord as one of the shooters. Bostic, who is among the four gunshot victims, remains in critical condition.

Warrants have been issued for assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury with intent to kill and inciting a riot. Bostic will be served after being released from the hospital.

A second suspected shooter — a juvenile — has also been identified. Petitions filed through the N.C. Department of Juvenile Justice include 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.

The juvenile is also hospitalized in critical condition. State law prohibits the release of identifying information regarding juvenile offenders.

Police have also charged 17-year-old Keyvyonn Rayshaund Bostic of Concord as an adult with accessory after the fact and inciting a riot. He was not injured in the shooting and was taken into custody shortly afterward.

Two other 17-year-olds were also struck by gunfire. One has been released from the hospital and the other remains in critical condition.

The Concord Police Department is still asking witnesses to share any photos or videos from the scene. Submissions can be made at the following link:
https://concordpdnc.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/cpd2517448.

2 Gals Kitchen said in a Facebook post that several people were injured in and around the restaurant and that staff members are “fine but shaken.”

The business added that it was “deeply saddened and heartbroken that such violence exist and has touched our beautiful downtown. There are not adequate words at this moment but we would appreciate prayers and we are so thankful for each and every one of you.”