Myrtle Beach, October 9, 2025
News Summary
Mayoral candidate Eva Rigney is pushing for a designated gun-free zone along Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach due to rising concerns over gun violence. Spanning from 9th Ave. North to 10th Ave. North, this initiative aims to enhance safety for residents and tourists. As the mayoral election approaches on November 4, Rigney is gathering support from local businesses despite suggestions that establishing such a zone may conflict with Second Amendment rights. Recent incidents of gun violence in the area have heightened concerns, particularly with the upcoming Carolina Country Music Festival.
Myrtle Beach, SC – Mayoral candidate Eva Rigney is advocating for a gun-free zone along Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach in response to rising gun violence concerns. Rigney’s initiative aims to enhance safety and attract more visitors to the area.
Rigney, who has personal ties to gun violence, is actively circulating a petition among local business owners to support the designation of the area from 9th Ave. North to 10th Ave. North as a gun-free zone. Despite her efforts, Solicitor Jimmy Richardson has indicated that establishing a government-enforced gun-free zone is unlikely due to potential conflicts with Second Amendment rights.
Nonetheless, Rigney remains determined to pursue this initiative, which has gained significance as the Myrtle Beach mayoral election approaches on November 4. The concerns over safety have intensified, especially with upcoming events such as the Carolina Country Music Festival scheduled to take place.
Recent incidents of gun violence have raised alarm among residents and visitors in Myrtle Beach. Notably, on April 26, an 18-year-old named Jerrius Davis was shot and killed by Officer Brandon O’Rourke after Davis allegedly fired into a crowd. Following this tragic event, another individual, 18-year-old Jawarran Bethea, faced charges for firing shots in the same vicinity, while police identified him through city camera footage. Bethea was arrested and charged with first-degree assault and battery, and was booked under a $20,000 bond.
Another shooting incident occurred on May 22, where two individuals shot at police while fleeing in a stolen vehicle. The Myrtle Beach police also reported a shooting on June 1 that left one person injured, resulting in the arrest of Terrell Moore on multiple charges including assault and battery.
Residents and visitors have mixed feelings regarding safety as the Carolina Country Music Festival approaches. Some individuals have decided to skip the festival due to safety concerns stemming from the recent gun violence, while others maintain their plans to attend, believing that the area remains safe. One resident highlighted the importance of using personal judgment concerning safety during late-night outings in the area.
As the October election approaches and gun violence remains a key issue, Rigney’s push for a gun-free zone reflects a growing desire among some community members for enhanced safety measures to protect both residents and tourists.
FAQ
What is Eva Rigney advocating for in Myrtle Beach?
Eva Rigney is advocating for a gun-free zone along Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach.
What area is the proposed gun-free zone in Myrtle Beach?
The proposed gun-free zone is designated from 9th Ave. North to 10th Ave. North.
When is the Myrtle Beach mayoral election?
The Myrtle Beach mayoral election is scheduled for November 4.
What recent incidents have raised safety concerns in Myrtle Beach?
Recent incidents include the shooting of 18-year-old Jerrius Davis by Officer Brandon O’Rourke, charges against Jawarran Bethea for firing shots, and additional shootings involving Terrell Moore.
How do residents feel about safety as the Carolina Country Music Festival approaches?
Residents have mixed feelings; some plan to skip the festival due to safety concerns, while others believe the area remains safe and plan to attend.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Advocacy | Gun-free zone along Ocean Boulevard |
| Area of Concern | From 9th Ave. North to 10th Ave. North |
| Election Date | November 4 |
| Recent Incidents | Multiple shootings leading to arrests |
| Resident Sentiment | Mixed feelings about safety at upcoming events |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
17-Year-Old Arrested After Shooting in Times Square
Additional Resources
- WPDE: Myrtle Beach Mayoral Candidate Advocates for Gun-Free Zone
- WMBF News: Man Charged with Firing Shots after Deadly Myrtle Beach Shooting
- WBTW: Gun Crimes on Ocean Boulevard Spark Concerns Ahead of Festival
- Myrtle Beach Online: Recent Crime Reports and Incidents
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence
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.
