At least one person has died and 11 others have been injured following a mass shooting at a popular tourist hotspot in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, late Saturday night (April 26).
Gunfire erupted just before midnight along the busy North Ocean Boulevard, sending tourists and families scrambling for cover. The incident occurred near Ripley’s Mirror Maze, a well-known attraction, according to Horry County Chief Deputy Coroner Tamara Willard.
Police confirmed that 18-year-old Jerrius Davis, from Bennettsville, was responsible for firing the weapon. Davis was shot dead by a police officer responding to the scene. The officer, who was reportedly uninjured, acted in response to what Myrtle Beach Police described as an “active threat.”
Horrified witnesses described scenes of chaos and terror. Michael Howard, 30, who was visiting from North Carolina, said he would be “forever traumatized” after witnessing Davis being shot and a woman being struck in the knees during the chaos.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has launched an investigation into the shooting, including a review of the officer’s use of force, according to police spokesperson Randolph Angotti.
North Ocean Boulevard between Eighth and 16th Avenues was sealed off into Sunday afternoon as police continued their investigation. Crime scene tape cordoned off several blocks, including areas around Peaches Corner and Ripley’s Crazy Golf.
Locals and holidaymakers were left shaken, with many taking shelter in nearby hotels and businesses during the ordeal.
Myrtle Beach Police released a statement offering their “prayers and deepest sympathies to everyone affected by this incident.”
South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace reacted on social media platform X, writing: “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.”
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