An 18-year-old, Nasir Bostic, was formally charged with assault and connected offenses after being released from the hospital following his involvement in a shooting at a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Concord last month, which left three others injured. According to WCNC, Bostic is facing charges that include assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury with intent to kill and inciting a riot. The violent incident took place on November 21, around 7:30 p.m., and Bostic was arrested after he was discharged from the hospital yesterday, December 9.
During the ceremony, chaos ensued when gunfire broke out, prompting attendees to scatter in a widespread panic. "We had a line of probably 250-300 people, and then all of a sudden, you heard what you thought was fireworks, but it's about 40 minutes early for the fireworks," Brett Ford, a balloon artist at the event, told WCNC. "And then all panic broke loose. Everybody scattered, everybody started running, people were falling down." The city was forced to cancel the remainder of the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and authorities were on the scene to provide immediate aid and assistance in evacuation.
Concord Police have identified three suspects in the shooting, including Nasir Bostic and 17-year-old Keyvyonn Rayshaund Bostic. Keyvyonn has been charged as an adult with accessory after the fact and inciting a riot, as per information obtained by WISTV. The Department of Juvenile Justice filed petitions for multiple charges against another juvenile involved, who, at the time of writing, remains in critical condition. Both Nasir and Keyvyonn Bostic are currently held without bond.
The aftermath of the incident has taken a heavy toll on the families of the victims. "I [texted her], 'Boo, did you hear the gunshots?' and I got a phone call, and it was her saying she got shot," Rachel Radford, the mother of 17-year-old victim Brianna Hodge, recounted to Queen City News. Radford later shared that she had to lose her job to care for her daughter and has launched an online fundraiser to help cover the medical expenses. Hodge is said to be recovering physically, but the emotional impact remains a significant burden for the family. "It's real scary, especially when you have teenagers. Growing up in this world is crazy," Radford expressed.
Police are continuing to gather evidence and have requested the public to submit videos or photos from the event. Anyone with information can reach out to Concord Police at (704) 920-5027. Nasir Bostic is expected to make his next court appearance on December 23, according to online records.
