Teen Party Turns Violent in South Durham Airbnb Shooting; Two 17-Year-Olds Injured

Mayor and Police Chief Urge Parental Involvement as Summer Violence Rises

DURHAM, NC – Two teenagers were injured late Monday night in a shooting at an Airbnb rental on Fayetteville Road, prompting renewed calls from city officials for parental engagement as summer gun violence threatens to escalate.

The shooting occurred just before midnight on June 17 in the 3200 block of Fayetteville Road. Responding Durham police officers arrived to find a 17-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg. He was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

About 20 minutes later, a 17-year-old female arrived at a different hospital via personal vehicle, suffering from what appeared to be a graze wound. She is expected to recover.

Airbnb Party May Have Been the Source of Violence

The home where the shooting occurred was reportedly rented through Airbnb, and neighbors told police that a teen party was taking place at the time. Witnesses said they heard what sounded like two people exchanging gunfire, and evidence suggests the incident may have begun as a drive-by.

One bullet reportedly struck a neighboring house across the street. Red Solo cups and what appeared to be marijuana were still visible on the lawn and porch the next morning.

The homeowner, who spoke briefly through a doorbell camera, confirmed he had rented the home via Airbnb but claimed he had no access to camera footage from the night of the shooting.

“There was no access to the camera because the camera was turned off, so I don’t know what happened,” the homeowner said.

Police recovered a firearm and multiple shell casings at the scene. No suspects have been identified at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing.

City Leaders Call for Accountability and Connection

In the aftermath of the shooting, Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams and Police Chief Patrice Andrews addressed the community’s ongoing struggle with youth violence—particularly during the summer months.

“These types of heinous acts rise over the summer,” said Mayor Williams. “Decisions matter, and parenting must be present. I don’t want to hear about the ‘what ifs.’”

Chief Andrews echoed the need for a community-wide response, beyond policing.

“It’s not just a law enforcement issue—it’s really about what’s in our hearts,” Andrews said. “We need to pour into our kids, offer them positivity, and show them there are always other options.”

She emphasized the importance of mentorship, family conversations, and adult presence, especially when school is out and teens are more vulnerable to risk.