Fight Leads to Downtown Shootout

An early-morning “altercation” at a Whiteville business led to gunfire on Madison Street early Sunday.
Whiteville Police have no suspects in the 2 a.m. melee at Functionz, Chief Paul Rockenbach said.
“Apparently there was an altercation inside that led to gunfire outside,” Rockenbach said.
A Ford Explorer, a Chevrolet Malibu and a Ford Fusion were struck by gunfire, causing $1,500 damage to each vehicle. A front window and door frame were damaged, and at least one bullet struck the building. Damages were estimated at $500 for the building.
Gunshots were reported in the area and in the adjacent Lewis Smith parking area. Investigators were on the scene into the predawn hours. It was unclear how many gunmen were involved, or how many shots were fired. Several vehicles were left at the Smith parking lot and retrieved later Sunday morning.
The business bills itself as a “performance and event venue” on its Facebook page, offering a location for family reunions, weddings and receptions, birthday parties and similar events.
The city has received several complaints about late night events at the business. The investigation is continuing.