Little River, SC Is Exploding in Popularity—What’s New, What’s Next, and Why You Should Visit Now

Residents and visitors in Little River, South Carolina, were jolted late Sunday night when rapid gunfire erupted on Watson Avenue, a residential street just a few miles from the Intracoastal Waterway. Horry County Police confirm that at least 11 people were transported to area hospitals after the 9:30 p.m. shooting; additional victims reportedly arrived by private vehicle, raising fears the tally could grow. First responders from Horry County Fire Rescue established a triage zone within minutes, while officers locked down the block and urged neighbors to shelter in place. “This is an active and ongoing investigation,” the department said in an overnight social-media update, adding that the suspect or suspects fled before authorities arrived. Witnesses described a chaotic scene: a Memorial Day weekend cookout had spilled into the street when a dispute escalated. “I heard at least 20 shots, then people started running and screaming,” said Sheila Greene, who lives two houses away. Detectives recovered multiple calibers of shell casings, suggesting more than one weapon was fired. Victim conditions have not been released, but officials at Grand Strand Medical Center and McLeod Health Seacoast confirmed they activated mass-casualty protocols. Horry County Schools announced counselors will be available Tuesday for students affected by the violence. WHY LITTLE RIVER IS ON EDGE Little River, home to roughly 10,500 residents, is best known for its historic waterfront, annual Blue Crab Festival, and proximity to the Grand Strand’s beaches. Although crime rates are lower than in neighboring Myrtle Beach, the unincorporated community has seen a recent uptick in firearm-related incidents, mirroring state-wide trends. South Carolina recorded a 52 percent increase in gun deaths over the past decade, according to CDC data. COMMUNITY RESPONSE Mayor Marilyn Hatley of North Myrtle Beach, which provides mutual aid to Little River, called the shooting “an unimaginable tragedy on a weekend meant for remembrance.” Local nonprofit Sea Haven announced a blood drive and emergency fund for victims’ families. Meanwhile, faith leaders from five area churches plan a candlelight vigil at Harbour View Park on Wednesday evening. WHAT INVESTIGATORS ARE LOOKING FOR Detectives are canvassing homes and scraping social-media videos for clues. Ring doorbell footage provided by neighbors could be pivotal, investigators say. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has joined the probe, focusing on tracing the recovered weapons’ serial numbers. Potential charges include attempted murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, both felonies under South Carolina law. Anyone with information is urged to call the Horry County tip line at 843-915-8477. TRAFFIC, TOURISM AND SAFETY The shooting occurred just 30 minutes north of Myrtle Beach, where holiday tourism is peaking. While officials stress that the incident was isolated, they have increased patrols along U.S. Highway 17 and at popular marinas to reassure visitors. The South Carolina Department of Transportation reports no closures, but drivers should expect heavier police presence. LOOKING AHEAD As forensic teams process evidence and doctors fight to save the wounded, residents are grappling with a new reality: gun violence has pierced the quiet of their coastal town. Community leaders say they will push for more street-lighting grants, youth outreach programs, and collaborative policing to prevent future bloodshed. This is a developing story; updates will follow as additional details emerge from law enforcement and medical officials.