Three Teens Charged in Shooting at Concord’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Three Teens Charged in Shooting at Concord’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

CONCORD, N.C. — What was meant to be a festive and joyful gathering took a harrowing turn on Friday evening when gunfire erupted during the city’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Union Street South. The event ended in chaos as multiple people were wounded and three teenagers were subsequently charged in connection with the violence.

The Incident

Police say the shooting occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. during the celebration, which drew hundreds of attendees for food trucks, music, a holiday film showing and what should have been a peaceful community moment. 
According to authorities, four people sustained gunshot wounds, three of them in critical condition. 
Law enforcement confirmed that this was not random — the shooting stemmed from a confrontation between individuals who knew each other. 
Shortly after the shooting, three suspects were identified and taken into custody:

• Nasir Ahmad Bostic, age 18, facing charges including assault with a deadly weapon, inflicting serious injury with intent to kill, and inciting a riot.

• Keyvyonn Rayshaund Bostic, age 17, arrested as an accessory after the fact and charged with inciting a riot.

• A juvenile whose name is not being released, also facing serious charges, including discharging a firearm into an occupied property.

Community Impact

The shooting shocked a community that had gathered in good spirit, highlighting how quickly celebration can turn into tragedy. The event was cancelled after the incident and police immediately began evacuating attendees and securing the scene.
Mayor and local officials described the violence as “senseless,” pointing to the trauma inflicted not only on the direct victims but on all who witnessed the ordeal. 
For many residents, what should have been a beloved holiday tradition now becomes a reminder of community vulnerability and the urgent need for prevention efforts.

Law Enforcement & Investigation

Investigators are reviewing video footage from the scene and interviewing witnesses to piece together exactly how the confrontation escalated into gunfire. Police say no additional suspects are actively being sought at this time. 
The involvement of minors and young adults in the incident has sparked conversations about youth violence, firearm access, and the conditions that enable such tragedies.

Looking Ahead: Healing and Prevention

In the aftermath, the Concord community faces the challenge of healing while also addressing the root issues behind such violence. Key steps include:

• Providing support resources for victims, witnesses, and first-responders affected by the trauma.

• Engaging young people in positive outlets and mentoring, aiming to prevent conflict escalation.

• Strengthening event safety protocols and awareness at large public gatherings.

• Encouraging community dialogue about conflicts before they become destructive.

A Reminder of Fragility

This incident serves as a stark reminder that community gatherings—in moments meant for joy—can be abruptly altered by violence. The people of Concord will remember both the pain of this event and the resilience that emerges when communities stand together.

As the investigation continues, the families of those involved, the wounded, and the suspects all face uncertain paths forward. For the broader community, this is a moment to reaffirm the value of safety, responsibility, and collective support.