On September 21, 2024, at approximately 1:52 a.m., Fayetteville police responded to a shooting at the Anubis Hookah Lounge located on Ramsey Street. Upon arrival, officers found 25-year-old Elijah Bryce Wyand suffering from a gunshot wound. He was immediately transported to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries. Another individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, was also injured during the incident and was reported to be in fair condition.
The events leading up to the shooting involved an altercation inside the lounge. Surveillance footage revealed that Wyand, who was at the venue celebrating his 25th birthday, engaged in a physical confrontation with another patron. The dispute escalated and continued into the parking lot, where Wyand was fatally shot.
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. The Fayetteville Police Department is actively investigating the case and has urged anyone with information to come forward. Detective A. Wolford can be contacted at 910-705-2141, or tips can be submitted anonymously through Crimestoppers at 910-483-TIPS (8477).
In the wake of this tragedy, Wyand's family and friends have expressed profound grief. His mother, Samantha Wyand, emphasized the senselessness of the violence, noting that her son was just beginning to deepen his faith and had his life cut short. A vigil was held in his honor, with attendees releasing blue balloons—his favorite color—as a tribute.
The Anubis Hookah Lounge, the site of the incident, has been the location of previous violent events, including a shooting in June that injured multiple people. In light of these occurrences, the establishment's owner has indicated plans to shut down the business.
Wyand's death has sparked discussions within the Fayetteville community about the prevalence of violence and the need for preventive measures. His family hopes that sharing his story will encourage others to seek peaceful resolutions and deter future acts of violence.
A memorial service for Elijah Bryce Wyand was held at Crystal Springs Chapel in Fayetteville, where family and friends gathered to pay their respects and celebrate his life.
