A tragic incident unfolded in Myrtle Beach on Saturday night, leaving one person dead and eleven others injured after a shooting occurred within the city’s bustling entertainment district.
According to law enforcement reports, officers responded to what they described as a “disturbance” involving multiple people shortly before midnight. The situation escalated when an individual began firing a weapon.
“At that time, based on the immediate threat, one of our officers responded by discharging their firearm,” stated authorities in an official update.
The shooting resulted in eleven injuries, with those affected receiving medical attention. Tragically, Jerrius Davis, an 18-year-old from Bennettsville, succumbed to his wounds. Horry County Deputy Coroner Tamara Willard confirmed the victim’s identity.
The officer involved in the exchange of gunfire was unharmed.
Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune emphasized the swift and decisive actions taken by the responding officer.
“Our officer saw what happened, and when he saw that an altercation was taking place and a gun was being shot, the officer responded very quickly and, in my opinion, saved lives,” she explained to News13. “Last night could have been so much worse.”
Mayor Bethune also addressed concerns about safety, noting her own presence on Ocean Boulevard earlier that evening and reaffirming Myrtle Beach’s appeal as a destination.
“This was an isolated incident,” she stated. “We had a huge crowd on the boulevard late last night, and we can’t always control what people are going to do, but we also can’t just shut ourselves in and do nothing. This is a great place to visit. It’s not an unsafe place at all.”
Representative Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) expressed her sorrow over the event, sharing on X:
- “Devastated by the tragic shooting in Myrtle Beach.”
- “Our hearts are torn apart for the victims and their families.”
- “South Carolina stands strong, and we will not tolerate violence of any sort in our communities. God bless the first responders on the scene.”
The Myrtle Beach Police Department conveyed its support to those impacted by the tragedy.
“Our hearts and continued prayers are with all those affected, as well as their loved ones during this difficult time,” the department shared.
Authorities are urging anyone with information or relevant video footage to contact either the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) or the Myrtle Beach Police Department at 843-918-1382. Fox News Digital has reached out to Mayor Bethune’s office and SLED for further comment.
