The North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division (ALE) has released new details regarding its investigation into the deadly gang-related shooting at Club Orion in Greensboro, which took place in the early hours of September 20, 2026. This incident involved a confrontation that escalated into gunfire outside the establishment, resulting in the death of Marvin Allen Watlington.
According to ALE, the altercation began inside Club O between Watlington and another individual. Following their exit from the venue, the dispute continued, culminating in a gunfight just outside. Watlington succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Agents from ALE were alerted to the shooting by the Greensboro Police Department (GPD) and quickly arrived to collaborate with GPD officers in determining the circumstances surrounding the incident and identifying those responsible.
Previous Incidents and Security Issues
This incident marks the second time this year that ALE has been called to investigate a shooting at Club Orion. The first occurred on April 5, 2026, when a shooting inside the club left one individual injured. Investigators noted that inadequate security measures contributed to that incident, as proper screening of patrons was not enforced.
During their investigation into the September shooting, ALE agents conducted numerous interviews, analyzed evidence collected from the crime scene, and reviewed surveillance footage from Club O and neighboring businesses. Findings indicated that all participants in the shooting were patrons of the club, and the security personnel employed by the establishment failed to adequately check for weapons, allowing individuals with firearms to enter the venue.
Reports also revealed that the night before the shooting, Watlington was involved in another physical altercation within Club O. Security staff and employees did not intervene, permitting the conflict to persist without any action taken.
Concerns Over Drug Use and Safety
Investigators also discovered signs of significant illegal drug use occurring at Club O on the night of the shooting. There were indications that had there been a more robust security presence that evening, the risk of injuries could have been mitigated. Employees voiced concerns about their safety while working at the establishment, highlighting a troubling environment.
Greensboro Police Chief Kamran Afzal remarked on the investigation, stating, “This is another powerful example of our strong partnership with ALE and shared duty to immediately address the people and places that cause and contribute to harm in our community.”
Actions Taken by ALE
Following their preliminary findings, ALE agents recommended that the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission (ABC Commission) suspend the ABC permits for Club O. The ABC Commission acted on this request, suspending the permits immediately due to the evident risks to public safety associated with the club.
“This investigation provided clear evidence of ongoing risks to public safety associated with Club Orion,” stated Bryan House, Director of North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement. He emphasized that the prompt suspension of the ABC permits aims to improve safety in the area. He also commended the efforts of the Greensboro Police Department during the investigation.
As part of the ongoing investigation, ALE has filed charges against the owner and several employees of Club O for various offenses related to illegal activities on the premises, including allowing unlawful conduct and consumption of controlled substances.
The investigation remains active, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
For more information, contact Ashley Thornton at the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division.
Source: N.C. Department of Public Safety. Photo: N.C. Department of Public Safety.
