Police fatally shoot Jerrius Davis during Myrtle Beach shooting incident
- A disturbance in Myrtle Beach escalated into gunfire late Saturday night, resulting in police action.
- Jerrius Davis, an 18-year-old, was shot and died from his injuries after police intervened.
- The incident raises public safety concerns in Myrtle Beach, a popular tourist destination.
In the early hours of Saturday night, a shooting incident in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, left one individual dead and 11 others injured. The Myrtle Beach Police Department received reports of a disturbance involving multiple individuals around 11:50 p.m., in a bustling tourist area known for its entertainment venues. Officers on patrol observed a situation escalating into gunfire, prompting one officer to shoot at an individual who was deemed an immediate threat. The shot individual was later identified as 18-year-old Jerrius Davis from Bennettsville, whose injuries proved fatal. The police department confirmed that eleven others were injured during the chaotic incident, some of whom were receiving medical treatment at local hospitals. The severity of their injuries remains unclear, as investigations are still ongoing. Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune commended the swift action of the police officer involved, emphasizing that the officer's response likely prevented further casualties. Local authorities expressed condolences to all those affected by the shooting. Following the incident, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) initiated an independent investigation. This process is standard protocol in incidents involving police use of deadly force, to ensure transparency and accountability. Local communication channels have urged anyone with relevant footage or information to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation. Mayor Bethune labeled the shooting as an isolated event, asserting the community’s resilience against violence. The shooting has sparked concern among residents and tourists alike, as Myrtle Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant nightlife and family-friendly atmosphere. The law enforcement agencies stressed the necessity of addressing public safety and preventative measures to mitigate such occurrences in the future. The city remains committed to promoting a safe environment for both visitors and residents, and further discussions surrounding public security are anticipated as investigations progress.