Myrtle Beach, September 2, 2025
News Summary
In a proactive measure to protect youth during back-to-school season, Myrtle Beach police raided five smoke shops suspected of selling dangerous items disguised as candy. The initiative is a response to rising concerns regarding products linked to health risks such as overdoses and mental health issues. One of the shops confirmed in the raids is A&B Tobacco & Vape, as authorities prioritize the safety of students by monitoring the availability of such potentially harmful products in the area.
Myrtle Beach Police Raid Five Smoke Shops Suspected of Selling Illegal Substances Disguised as Candy
On August 28, 2025, police in Myrtle Beach conducted a series of raids, executing five search warrants at local vape and smoke shops as part of a concerted effort to protect students from potentially dangerous products. The raids targeted businesses suspected of selling items disguised as food and candy that could pose health risks, particularly to young people returning to school.
The police have raised alarms that these products, which include edibles and gummies, may be linked to serious issues such as overdoses, suicides, and other mental health crises. This concerning trend has prompted local authorities to take preemptive action aimed at safeguarding the community’s youth.
Among the establishments searched, A&B Tobacco & Vape, located at 1258 3rd Ave. S., was confirmed by authorities. However, the names and addresses of the other four shops involved in the raids have not been disclosed. The police department has made it clear that their priority is to ensure the safety of students during the back-to-school season by monitoring the availability of such products in the area.
Mark Bechtel, a school resource officer, indicated that the substances being scrutinized are particularly troubling, as they are being marketed in a way that could easily attract children, making them appear harmless. Local merchant Tuvia Wilkes acknowledged that his shop was among those searched but insisted that he does not sell illegal products, affirming that he is compliant with legal regulations regarding vape and cannabis-related items.
The investigation into these businesses is ongoing, with police spokesman Randolph Angotti stating that further details about the specific substances being targeted will not be available at this time. In response to these incidents, the Myrtle Beach Police Department has urged community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to these products.
This year, as schools resume amid rising concerns about youth substance abuse, local authorities remain focused on monitoring the distribution and sale of potentially harmful products throughout the area. Various health experts and law enforcement officials encourage parents and neighbors to engage in discussions with children about the dangers of consuming unknown substances, especially those disguised as common candy and snacks.
The community is expected to remain alert as the police action unfolds, and local news outlets will provide updates as more information becomes available on this critical issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the raids on smoke shops in Myrtle Beach?
The raids were conducted as part of an effort to prevent hazardous products disguised as candy from entering local schools and affecting students’ health.
What types of products are under investigation?
The investigation is focusing on edible products such as gummies that may have links to overdoses and mental health issues.
Which smoke shops were searched by the police?
One confirmed shop searched is A&B Tobacco & Vape, located at 1258 3rd Ave. S. The names and addresses of the other four businesses remain undisclosed.
What steps are being taken to enhance community safety?
Authorities are urging community members to report suspicious activities and remain vigilant, especially with students returning to school.
Key Features of the Police Raids
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date of Raids | August 28, 2025 |
| Number of Shops Raided | Five |
| Confirmed Shop Name | A&B Tobacco & Vape |
| Main Concern | Sale of illegal products disguised as candy |
| Community Alert | Residents urged to report suspicious activities |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Myrtle Beach Police Raids Target Vape and Smoke Shops
Myrtle Beach Police Investigate Smoke Shops Selling Illegal Edibles
Additional Resources
- WPDE News
- Wikipedia: Vaping
- WBTW News
- Google Search: vape shops Myrtle Beach
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Substance Abuse
- WMBF News
- Google News: Myrtle Beach smoke shops
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
