Shooting in Myrtle Beach Leaves 11 Injured; Officer's Response Under Investigation

On the evening of Saturday, April 26, 2025, a shooting incident in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, resulted in 11 individuals sustaining injuries. Myrtle Beach police officers responded to a disturbance involving multiple individuals when gunfire erupted. In response to an immediate threat, an officer fatally shot 18-year-old Jerrius Davis. The officer's actions were deemed appropriate by local authorities, who credited the officer with potentially saving lives. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is actively investigating the case. The injured individuals are currently receiving medical treatment.

Myrtle Beach, a city renowned for its beaches, golf courses, and entertainment options, attracts over 20 million visitors annually. Despite its appeal as a tourist destination, the city has faced challenges related to crime. In 2023, Myrtle Beach was ranked as the fifth most dangerous city in South Carolina, with property crime rates significantly above the national average.

In recent years, the Myrtle Beach Police Department has implemented several initiatives to enhance public safety. Between 2019 and 2023, the city saw a reduction in violent crime incidents from 4,374 to 2,739, a decrease of over 1,600 reported incidents. This decline has been attributed to proactive policing strategies, including increased officer visibility in high-traffic areas and the monitoring of the city's Real Time Crime citywide camera network.

Local officials have expressed support for the police response during the April 26 incident. Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune stated that the officer responded appropriately. Horry County Deputy Coroner Tamara Willard noted that the officer's actions potentially saved lives, emphasizing that the situation could have been much worse without the officer's intervention.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is conducting an active investigation into the incident. As of now, no further details have been released.

The shooting has raised concerns among residents and visitors about safety in Myrtle Beach, potentially affecting tourism and local businesses. The incident highlights the importance of evaluating police response protocols and the effectiveness of recent safety initiatives in preventing and addressing violent incidents.

As the SLED investigation continues, the Myrtle Beach community grapples with the aftermath of the April 26 shooting. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring public safety in a bustling tourist hub.