In the early hours of Sunday morning, chaos broke out at a house party in a quiet neighborhood just outside Hickory, North Carolina. What began as a large gathering of about 100 people—many believed to be high school students—ended in tragedy when multiple gunmen opened fire, killing one person and injuring eleven others.

The shooting happened around 12:45 a.m. on Walnut Acres Drive in the Mountain View area. Witnesses described a sudden barrage of gunfire that sent people scrambling for cover. Law enforcement officials later confirmed that more than 80 rounds had been fired across a wide area, including the house and its yard.

The victim who lost his life has been identified as 58-year-old Shawn Patrick Hood from Lenoir. The injured include individuals ranging from teenagers to adults in their 50s. At least one person remains in critical condition.

No arrests have been made as of Monday morning, but investigators believe more than one shooter was involved. The Catawba County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation, with assistance from the state’s Bureau of Investigation and the FBI. Officials are urging anyone who attended the party or has video evidence to come forward.

Two hours before the shooting, police had received a noise complaint about the same location, but it is unclear whether the two incidents are connected.

Residents of the Hickory area, known for its calm and close-knit communities, are expressing shock and concern over the sudden eruption of violence. Local officials are expected to meet this week to discuss community safety and youth outreach strategies.

As authorities continue their search for those responsible, the incident adds to the growing list of gun-related violence impacting gatherings across the country.