Mom's Warning: OBX Teens' Grudges Festered Until Her Son Died

A Tragic Shooting and the Struggle for Justice

The community of Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, is still reeling from a violent incident that left a young man dead and another in custody. The shooting occurred in the parking lot of the Avalon Fishing Pier, where Zane Hughes, a teenager, was fatally shot. His mother, Nicole Hassell, has spoken publicly about the tragedy, shedding light on the complex relationship between her son and the suspect charged with his murder.

Zane’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief and anger within the community. Hassell expressed her pain during a visit to the pier, where she came to honor her son and share her story. “One death is too many,” she said. “My son should not have died, but his death will not have been in vain.” She emphasized that no parent should have to endure the heartbreak of losing a child, and she hopes that Zane’s story will prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Hassell described her son as a bright and joyful presence who brought laughter and positivity wherever he went. “Zane lit up every room that he walked into,” she said. “He was goofy. He was funny. He was always right.” Even in the moments before her trip to the pier, Zane had made a lighthearted comment about her being late, a reminder of the bond they shared.

According to Hassell, the shooting stemmed from long-standing conflicts between Zane and Henry Lee Hargis, the 16-year-old boy now facing first-degree murder charges. She revealed that there was “bad blood” between the two teens, but she believes Zane would have resolved their issues without violence. “My son had a little bit more honor and integrity to use his hands instead of a weapon,” she said.

Hassell also spoke about the history of Hargis, suggesting that the teen had a pattern of legal trouble and an obsession with firearms. She mentioned that she had access to court documents detailing past issues involving Hargis. These records reportedly show a long-standing problem with the teen’s behavior, including interactions with law enforcement.

The shooting itself was described by Hassell as brutal. She claimed that Hargis hunted Zane at the Avalon Fishing Pier, waiting for him to come off the sand dune before opening fire. According to her account, Hargis shot Zane multiple times after he fell to the ground.

Despite the emotional toll, Hassell remained composed while sharing her story, though she struggled when reflecting on the loss of her son. “Hold your loved ones and your babies tight and scream their names so the world will remember,” she said, fighting back tears. “Zane was not only a remarkable young man in life, but an extraordinary, irreplaceable man in death.”

While the police department has not provided detailed information about the case, they have stated that they are legally restricted from discussing juvenile records. This has led to frustration among some residents who want more transparency about Hargis’ background.

As the investigation continues, plans for a memorial service for Zane are still being finalized. His family and friends hope to celebrate his life and ensure that his legacy lives on.

Hassell urged everyone to remember Zane’s name and the impact he had on those around him. “Zane Thomas Hughes — remember that name, scream that name,” she said. “Stand with me and tell the world who Zane Thomas Hughes is.”