Horry County Breaking News: $2.3 B Coastal Development Approved—How It Will Impact Property Values, Traffic & Jobs

Horry County, S.C. — Late Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, gunfire erupted along Watson Avenue in the Little River community, sending at least 11 people to area hospitals and thrusting Horry County back into the national spotlight. The Horry County Police Department (HCPD) says the shooting, reported just before 10 p.m. near the Intracoastal Waterway marina, appears to be an isolated incident. Investigators believe additional victims may have reached emergency rooms by private vehicle, and they are urging anyone with information, photos or video to contact HCPD’s tip line at 843-915-8477. First responders from Horry County Fire Rescue moved the wounded to Grand Strand Regional and other hospitals while officers locked down the marina district, a popular launch point for charter fishing and casino boats. Within minutes, North Myrtle Beach police racing to assist suffered their own casualty when an officer’s service weapon discharged accidentally, injuring his leg; he is listed in stable condition. The violence struck during one of the Grand Strand’s busiest tourism stretches, overlapping with Atlantic Beach Bikefest and the traditional Memorial Day influx of beachgoers. Local businesses reported temporary closures, and traffic along U.S. 17 and Highway 9 was diverted while crime-scene technicians processed shell casings and surveillance footage. No arrests or motive had been announced by early Monday, but detectives assured residents there was “no ongoing threat to the community,” allowing most roadblocks to lift before dawn. Patrols remain intensified across Little River, North Myrtle Beach and nearby Cherry Grove to reassure visitors, many of whom woke to the sound of helicopters circling the waterway. County Council Chair Johnny Gardner condemned the shooting, calling it “a heartbreaking reminder that public safety resources must grow with Horry County’s explosive population.” Census data show the county has added more than 40,000 residents since 2020, making it one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing regions. Tourism officials are monitoring cancellations but note that beaches, the Little River Blue Crab Festival site and Myrtle Beach attractions remain open. Travelers are advised to check the county’s real-time traffic map and follow @HorryCountyPD on X for updates. Key SEO takeaway points: • Horry County shooting leaves 11 hospitalized in Little River. • Incident happens near Intracoastal Waterway marina during Memorial Day weekend. • Horry County Police urge witnesses to share tips; investigation continues. Anyone with information can call 843-915-TIPS or submit anonymously through Crime Stoppers of South Carolina.