News Summary
A mass shooting in Myrtle Beach on Saturday night resulted in one fatality and eleven injuries during a busy tourist weekend. The incident occurred near Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, where multiple people were shot around 11:50 p.m. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as gunfire prompted panic. The shooter was fatally wounded by police. Authorities are investigating the event while community leaders stress the importance of safety for residents and tourists alike.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – A mass shooting took place on Saturday night, resulting in one fatality and eleven injuries during a busy tourist weekend. The incident occurred around 11:50 p.m. on North Ocean Boulevard, near the popular attraction Ripley’s Believe It Or Not. Among those injured, ten individuals sustained life-threatening injuries, and victims ranged in age from 13 to 43.
Myrtle Beach police reported that officers responded to a disturbance involving multiple individuals just prior to the shooting. During the confrontation, one individual began firing a weapon. In response to the immediate threat, a police officer fired upon the shooter, fatally wounding the gunman, identified as 18-year-old Jerrius Davis from Bennettsville, South Carolina. The Horry County Deputy Coroner confirmed the identity of the deceased. Details indicate that at least one officer discharged their firearm, resulting in Davis’s death.
The chaotic scene prompted witnesses to describe the atmosphere as tumultuous, with reports of gunfire leading to panic among the crowd. Eyewitnesses recounted hearing gunshots and observing people fleeing following shouts of “gun.” Blood and injuries were evident on the street where the incident unfolded. Medical personnel immediately attended to the injured, who were transported to local hospitals for treatment of their gunshot-related injuries.
Authorities conducted a thorough investigation at the shooting location, and North Ocean Boulevard was closed between Eighth Avenue and 16th Avenue to facilitate this process. Myrtle Beach Police Chief stated that the officer’s prompt actions likely prevented additional casualties, underscoring the seriousness of the shooting incident.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune expressed heartfelt condolences to the families affected and emphasized the necessity for community safety. She characterized the event as a random act of violence and assured the public that violent crime in the area is decreasing. Local officials have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of both residents and tourists alike.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has taken over the investigation into the shooting, complementing the internal review the Myrtle Beach Police are conducting concerning the officer-involved shooting. The police department urged anyone with information or video evidence related to the incident to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Local congresswoman Rep. Nancy Mace expressed her devastation over the incident, highlighting the urgent need to address community violence and reinforce the message that such acts are unacceptable. The response from local leaders reflects a collective determination to restore a sense of safety and security in the city.
As the investigation develops, officials remain focused on supporting victims and their families while providing updates on the case. Community leaders are committed to promoting a safe environment for both locals and visitors in Myrtle Beach.
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