Myrtle Beach Shooting Leaves Tourists Stunned: Timeline, Victims, and What We Know Now

Myrtle Beach, S.C. — A Memorial Day weekend trip to South Carolina’s Grand Strand turned violent Sunday night when gunfire erupted on Watson Avenue in Little River, about 30 minutes north of Myrtle Beach. Horry County Police confirm at least 11 people were rushed to area hospitals by EMS, with additional victims arriving in private vehicles, bringing the total number of injured even higher. The shooting broke out shortly after 9:30 p.m., rattling residents and thousands of tourists in town for Bike Week and the long holiday. Investigators believe the violence was an isolated incident and say there is “no ongoing threat” to the wider community, but they have not released information on suspects or a possible motive. Detectives canvassed the neighborhood throughout the night, collecting shell casings and interviewing witnesses while patrol units blocked access to the scene. Victims’ conditions range from serious to non-life-threatening. Local hospitals activated mass-casualty protocols to manage the sudden influx of patients. Authorities have asked anyone with cellphone video or first-hand information to contact the Horry County tip line, emphasizing that even small details could help identify those responsible. The Myrtle Beach shooting comes during one of the region’s busiest tourism periods, when beach rentals, hotels and restaurants are typically near capacity. Sgt. Evan Reeves with HCPD urged visitors to stay alert: “We have additional officers on foot, bike and vehicle patrol all week. If you see something suspicious, call 911 immediately.” Community leaders are already coordinating counseling resources for victims and neighbors. “Our hearts are broken, but we won’t let violence define our town,” said Little River council member Marissa Green at a Monday morning briefing. Traffic along Highway 17, the main coastal artery, remained heavy but moving as vacationers resumed holiday plans. Still, several local events added security staff or shifted indoors. Key takeaways for travelers: • Check with your lodging provider for updated safety advisories. • Plan extra travel time; some side streets near Watson Avenue remain closed for forensic work. • Follow Horry County Police on social media for real-time updates on the Myrtle Beach shooting investigation. As detectives piece together what led to Sunday night’s gunfire, officials vow heightened patrols through the remainder of Memorial Day weekend to reassure residents and the millions who choose Myrtle Beach for summer fun.