Wilmington PD responds to Pravda shooting, night club shares statement online

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A Wilmington man is facing several charges after a shooting at a dance club early Sunday morning. 

Wilmington Police Department said the outcome could have been much worse if police had not arrived as quickly as they did. 

“You don’t need to carry a gun somewhere where you’re gonna be drinking because bad things can happen,” Wilmington PD’s Lt. Greg Willett said. 

Wilmington police said shortly before 2 a.m. officers heard gunshots coming from inside Pravda Night Club at 23 N. Front Street. A large crowd ran outside before officers rushed in. 

One person was shot, the victim was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. 

Police identified 29-year-old Antonio Beatty as the suspect.  

Beatty is facing several charges, including attempted first-degree murder. He is currently being held without bond. 

Pravda Night Club posted a statement on Facebook in response to the shooting. It reads in part: 

“Our hearts are heavy after the senseless violent incident that happened inside our business last night at 2am. The safety and well-being of our customers and employees has always been our top priority.”  

“We are cooperating fully with law enforcement as they investigate this deplorable event. As details continue to emerge, this appears to be an isolated incident between two individuals.” 

Wilmington City Councilman Luke Waddell took to social media to give his thoughts on the downtown shooting. His Facebook post reads in part: 

“It’s time we authorize and direct our law enforcement to focus on bringing these known bad actors to account and demand they operate to the standard the rest of our downtown establishments abide by.” 

Lieutenant Greg Willett with Wilmington Police Department said quick response by officers kept a bad situation from becoming worse.  

“Our officers reacted immediately, within hearing the gunshots, they immediately ran towards the gunshots. There was no wondering what that noise was, wondering where it came from. They were immediately able to tell where those shots were fired from and ran towards it just like they’re trained to do,” Lt. Willett said. 

This is an ongoing investigation. We will continue to keep you updated as more details emerge. 

If you were there and feel you have information about what led to the shooting, contact Wilmington Police.