A late-night disturbance in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, turned deadly on April 26, 2024, when gunfire erupted near the popular tourist strip. The incident left one teenager dead and 11 others injured, including civilians caught in the crossfire.
Key Details of the Shooting
- When & Where: Around 11:50 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, near a crowded area in Myrtle Beach.
- What Happened:
- Police responded to reports of a large altercation.
- At least one suspect opened fire on the scene.
- An officer discharged their weapon in response.
- Casualties:
- 1 fatality: Jerrius Davis, 18, of Bennettsville, SC.
- 11 injured: Victims’ conditions range from stable to critical.
Ongoing Investigations
- South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is leading the probe.
- Internal review underway since an officer fired their weapon.
- Witnesses say the scene was chaotic, with multiple shots fired.
Victim Identified: Who Was Jerrius Davis?
The Horry County Coroner’s Office confirmed the deceased as Jerrius Davis, an 18-year-old from Bennettsville—a small town about 100 miles from Myrtle Beach.
- No prior criminal record (per preliminary checks).
- Family and friends describe him as a “good kid” with no known gang ties.
- Social media tributes pouring in under #JusticeForJerrius.
“He was just here for the weekend. This wasn’t supposed to happen.”
— Family spokesperson (via WMBF News)
Critical Questions Still Unanswered
- Was Davis armed? (SLED has not confirmed.)
- How many shooters were involved?
- Were the injured victims bystanders or part of the altercation?
- Will bodycam footage be released?
Community Reaction
- Local leaders call for calm amid tensions.
- Tourism concerns: Myrtle Beach relies heavily on visitors; could this impact safety perceptions?
- Activists demand transparency in the police investigation.
What’s Next?
- Autopsy results expected within days.
- SLED’s findings could take weeks.
- Possible protests if the officer’s use of force is deemed unjustified.
