Family of Myrtle Beach Shooting Suspect Claims Self-Defense
The family of a man charged in a deadly road rage incident in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, over Memorial Day weekend claims the suspect acted in self-defense. Anthony Garner of Albermarle, North Carolina, is facing murder and weapon possession charges after 31-year-old Cedrick Reddick of Columbia was shot to death on May 25, 2024.
Garner’s Family Argues Self-Defense
In a distressing series of events, Garner’s family asserts that he was protecting them after they were “violently attacked” during their vacation. “We didn’t know if we were going to live or die,” stated Ashley Garner, Anthony’s wife. Remaining shaken by the incident, Nuvia, their daughter, provided further details about the night the shooting occurred. She claims Reddick attempted to cut in front of their vehicle, initiating the fateful confrontation. “That night, he did what he didn’t want to have to do, but he defended our family,” Nuvia reported.
Contradicting Accounts
While the garner’s family maintains the claim of self-defense, arrest documents mask a different story. These documents claim Garner was struck in the face by an unidentified associate of Reddick following the road rage incident. They further state that Reddick intervened, attempting to mediate the situation before Garner shot him multiple times.
‘Stand Your Ground’ Law
In spite of the charges against Anthony Garner, his family is steadfast in their belief that he had every right to defend himself under South Carolina’s ‘Stand Your Ground’ law. The law allows individuals to use force in self-defense when in fear of grave bodily harm or death. “Anthony probably right now could be the picture of ‘Stand Your Ground’ because that’s all he did,” declared Ashley Garner.
Garner’s Current Site
Garner is currently held at J Reuben Long Detention Center, and there has been no bond set. The date for his next court appearance remains undecided. Several critical questions linger as the family seeks to raise funds for legal representation, hoping that Anthony’s case will be dismissed.
A Family Left in Limbo
In the interim, the Garner family expresses the profound toll the situation has imposed. Their lives have been upended, with Anthony, the primary provider, behind bars. As Nuvia prepares for college, her family navigates the harrowing experience while longing for a semblance of normalcy. “We really miss him, we need him to get back, we need him, our community needs him,” said Ashley Garner in a heartrending plea.
Credit to HERE News Network
In a story that continues to develop, updates will follow from HERE news Network as more information becomes available.
Author: HERE News

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.


