Myrtle Beach Shooting: 1 Dead, 11 Injured Amid Chaos on Ocean Boulevard
The incident, which occurred around 11:50 p.m. on the 900 block of North Ocean Boulevard, has prompted multiple investigations and sparked intense community reactions.
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Myrtle Beach Police-Involved Shooting Leaves 1 Dead, 11 Injured |
Myrtle Beach Shooting
Myrtle Beach Police Department (MBPD) officers responded to reports of a large disturbance involving multiple individuals. As officers arrived, 18-year-old Jerrius Davis of Bennettsville, South Carolina, opened fire, according to initial reports. In response, at least one officer discharged their weapon, fatally shooting Davis.
Eleven other people were injured during the chaotic exchange. While some injuries stemmed directly from gunfire, others were caused by the resulting panic. Emergency responders treated victims on-site and transported several to nearby hospitals. Authorities have confirmed that the officer involved was not injured.
Investigation and Official Response
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is leading the independent investigation, as standard procedure requires when an officer discharges a firearm resulting in death. MBPD confirmed that three officers have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome.
Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune and Police Chief Amy Prock praised the swift action taken by law enforcement, emphasizing that the officers likely prevented even greater loss of life.
"The safety of our residents and visitors remains our top priority," Chief Prock stated. "We are fully cooperating with SLED and committed to transparency."
Victim and Suspect Profiles, Jerrius Davis
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18-year-old Jerrius Davis was killed by police as he was firing a weapon indiscriminately into a crowd after a large altercation broke out. |
Jerrius Davis, the deceased, was a resident of Bennettsville, located about 100 miles northwest of Myrtle Beach. Davis had minor prior interactions with law enforcement but was not a wanted suspect at the time of the shooting. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether he acted alone or if others were involved in escalating the violence.
The identities of the 11 injured individuals have not been publicly released due to privacy laws but include both tourists and local residents. Most of the injured are expected to recover fully.
Community Reactions
The shooting has deeply unsettled both residents and visitors. Local businesses along Ocean Boulevard reported a sharp drop in foot traffic following the incident.
"We’re devastated," said Angela Ramirez, owner of a nearby souvenir shop. "This isn't the image we want for our city."
City officials are ramping up patrols and launching new public safety initiatives in response. A public forum has been scheduled for May 2 to address community concerns and outline additional security measures for the busy summer season.
Potential Motive
Investigators are still working to determine the motive behind the initial disturbance and Davis' decision to open fire. Preliminary findings suggest the altercation may have stemmed from a personal dispute that escalated violently.
Call for Witnesses
Authorities are urging anyone with video footage or firsthand accounts of the incident to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers of the Lowcountry.
Conclusion
As investigations unfold, Myrtle Beach is left grappling with the aftermath of a tragic event that underscores the critical importance of fast, decisive law enforcement action in crowded public spaces. The city's leaders remain focused on restoring a sense of security as the summer tourism season approaches.
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