A 36-year-old man from New York state was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot Saturday morning on the beach off Kill Devil Hills, and police are asking beachgoers to watch for possibly two weapons in the surf.
The Kill Devil Hills Police Department responded near the Atlantic Street beach access at 6:46 a.m., after the man’s body was found by people walking along the surf. Full details of the man’s identity were not released by police.
According to a press release, it appeared he took his own life near the shore break. The weapon has not been found and was most likely washed into the ocean from wave action.
“Several .270 rounds were discovered in the course of the investigation. This indicates the weapon was a long gun/hunting rifle. Further investigation confirmed the deceased did own a hunting rifle,” said KDH Police Chief Gary L. Britt.
“There was also an empty holster for a handgun discovered in the deceased’s vehicle. It may be he had that weapon on his person at the time of his death and that it too was washed away,” said Britt
“Tidal action this morning is pushing south. If the weapon(s) washes back up on shore, it may be well south of Atlantic Street, but we are asking all beachgoers to keep their eyes open,” Britt said.
Anyone finding any guns is urged to call 911 and have an officer recover them.
Editor’s note: OBX Today has a policy of not publishing detailed information from suicides except in extraordinary circumstances. If you or someone you know is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress and needs support, call 1-800-273-8255.