Three Teens Charged in Shooting at Concord’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The city of Concord is reeling after what should have been a joyful and tradition-filled night turned into chaos and fear. During the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony—an event that normally draws families, children, and community members from across the region—gunfire erupted, sending attendees running for safety and prompting a massive emergency response. Authorities have now announced that three individuals, including two teens and one juvenile, have been charged in connection with the violence.
A Night of Celebration Shattered
The ceremony, held in downtown Concord, had been underway for less than an hour when the sound of gunshots pierced through festive music and holiday cheer. Parents grabbed their children, crowds scattered, and several attendees dialed 911 as first responders rushed toward the scene. Police officers, already present for routine event security, quickly moved to secure the area and assist those affected.
What was meant to be a peaceful community gathering instantly turned into a scene of chaos as law enforcement worked to locate the source of the gunfire, tend to the injured, and clear the area.
Suspects Identified and Charged
Concord Police confirmed today that 18-year-old Nasir Ahmad Bostic, 17-year-old Keyvyonn Rayshaund Bostic, and a juvenile whose name is not being released have been taken into custody and formally charged in connection with the shootings.
Authorities indicate that the three suspects are facing various serious charges, which may include:
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Weapons violations
- Discharging a firearm in a crowded or public space
- Potential attempted murder or related felony charges, depending on the severity of victims’ injuries
Police have not yet provided details on the relationship between the suspects, but they confirmed that the two Bostic teens are siblings. Investigators continue working to determine the motive behind the violence and whether the shooting was targeted or the result of a personal dispute that escalated.
Injuries and Immediate Response
Multiple people were struck by gunfire or injured during the chaotic evacuation. As first responders moved in, paramedics provided emergency care to victims on-site before transporting them to nearby hospitals. Officials have not yet released the total number of victims or their conditions but said that all injured parties are receiving medical attention.
Witnesses described a terrifying scene of people ducking behind barriers, parents pushing strollers to safety, and children crying as officers shouted for the crowd to disperse.
Swift Police Action and Investigation
Thanks to the rapid response of officers already on location, the suspects were detained shortly after the shooting. Surveillance footage from the event, along with witness accounts and physical evidence, played key roles in quickly identifying those believed responsible.
The investigation is ongoing, with the Major Crimes Unit processing the area, collecting shell casings, and reviewing camera footage. Detectives are also interviewing dozens of witnesses who were present when the gunfire erupted.
Community Shock and Outrage
Residents of Concord are expressing heartbreak, anger, and deep frustration following the violence. Social media is filled with accounts from frightened attendees who described holding their children tight, running in fear, or witnessing the aftermath of the shooting.
City leaders condemned the incident in strong terms, emphasizing that an act of violence during a family-centered holiday celebration is especially devastating for the entire community.
“This event is meant to bring people together in peace and celebration,” one official said. “To see it disrupted by violence is unacceptable, and we are committed to holding those responsible fully accountable.”
Increased Security Planned for Future Events
Following the incident, Concord city officials announced plans to review safety protocols and consider expanded security measures for upcoming holiday events. Additional law enforcement presence, increased screening, and other precautions are being evaluated to prevent similar incidents.
A Community Determined to Heal
As Concord processes the shock of the shooting, many in the community are already expressing determination to come together, support victims, and reclaim the sense of unity that the holiday season is meant to foster.
Local leaders, clergy, and community members are organizing gatherings to provide support, and counseling services may be offered to children and families who witnessed the traumatic event.
The city is expected to release further updates as the investigation develops and more information regarding the suspects’ charges becomes public.
