Scene of deadly shooting ‘illegal nightclub’, club owner arrested

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — An investigation into a deadly shooting in Columbus County uncovered an illegal nightclub, according to a news release from the district attorney’s office.

On November 25, Ricky Heckstall was shot and killed outside an establishment known as The Hideaway Lounge in Bolton.

According to the release, an investigation of the crime scene by the Columbus County Sheriff’s office and NC SBI revealed a sophisticated nightclub operation to include the sale of alcohol.

John Freeman, 35, has been arrested in connection with operating an illegal nightclub.

“Establishments such as the one Mr. Freeman was illegally operating creates a substantial risk to our community and warrants the pursuit of all criminal and civil processes available under the law,” said District Attorney Jon David.

While the murder investigation is ongoing, ALE is investigating the alcohol related offenses.

The district attorney’s office says the club does not have a permit by the ABC Board to sell alcohol. The District Attorney, Columbus County Sheriff Lewis Hatcher, and ALE will be seeking a nuisance and abatement action to permanently close down this facility.

Freeman is charged with:

• poss/sell alcohol beverage no permit
• Operate video gaming machine
• Possession of a full container wine/liquor/malt beverage by an unauthorized person

He is in the Columbus County Jail under a $7,500 bond.