News Summary
A mass shooting in Myrtle Beach resulted in the death of an 18-year-old and injuries to 11 others. The incident erupted near a popular tourist attraction, leading to chaos. The deceased was identified as Jerrius Davis. Witnesses described a scene of panic and fear, with authorities now investigating the motive behind the shooting. Local officials have condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for community safety. Two suspects are connected to the investigation as they face multiple charges from a related police chase earlier.
South Carolina witnessed a tragic mass shooting on Saturday night in a bustling tourist area of Myrtle Beach, leaving one 18-year-old dead and injuring 11 others. The incident occurred shortly before midnight on North Ocean Boulevard, near the popular Ripley’s Believe It Or Not attraction.
The deceased was identified as Jerrius Davis, a resident of Bennettsville, South Carolina. According to reports, chaos erupted shortly before the shooting when officers on patrol noticed a disturbance involving multiple individuals. Amid the turmoil, one person opened fire, which led to an officer returning fire in response. Tragically, Jerrius Davis sustained fatal injuries from the officer’s rounds, as confirmed by Horry County Deputy Coroner Tamara Willard.
Witness accounts detailed a frantic scene, with one individual describing the sound of gunfire and the sight of a girl falling to the ground, creating a “very traumatizing” experience. Videos circulating on social media captured the chaos that unfolded, including a woman who was visibly injured and receiving assistance from police.
As the incident progressed, a witness reportedly heard a warning shout of “gun,” which triggered panic among those in the area, causing many to flee the scene. The nature of the disturbance and the ongoing investigation mean authorities have not yet determined a clear motive for the shooting.
In response to the tragedy, the Myrtle Beach Police Department extended its condolences to the victims and their families. An internal review of the officer-involved shooting is being conducted, while North Ocean Boulevard was closed between Eighth Avenue and Sixteenth Avenue on Sunday morning for crime scene processing.
Local officials expressed their shock and sorrow over the event. South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace voiced her devastation, emphasizing that such violence is unacceptable in the state. Myrtle Beach Police Chief Amy Prock condemned the extreme violence associated with this and previous incidents, noting that it contributes to community danger.
Also relevant to the investigation are two suspects, Omarion Glass (20) and Riley Pegram (17), who face multiple charges relating to an earlier police chase and an exchange of gunfire with officers. This police chase occurred just days before the shooting, when authorities attempted to stop a suspicious vehicle containing masked individuals, leading to shots being fired. Fortunately, no officers or bystanders were injured during that event.
Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune called for potential wrongdoers to stay away, asserting that the city does not welcome individuals committing violence. The police department is actively seeking assistance from the public to help with the investigation surrounding both the shooting on Saturday and the earlier police chase.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating incident, the focus remains on the ongoing investigations and ensuring the safety of Myrtle Beach residents and visitors. The police are urging anyone with information related to either incident to come forward.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WMBF News: Bond Hearing Held for Man Charged in Myrtle Beach Chase Shooting
- Wikipedia: Myrtle Beach
- WFMY News: Two Triad Men Arrested for Firing Shots at Myrtle Beach Police Officers
- Google Search: Myrtle Beach shooting
- WBTV: 4 Arrested After Shooting Officers During Myrtle Beach Chase
- Google Scholar: Myrtle Beach crime
- Post and Courier: Myrtle Beach Police Chase Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local Crime News
- Google News: Myrtle Beach
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
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