Myrtle Beach, October 20, 2025
News Summary
During the ‘No Kings’ protest in Myrtle Beach, a woman was arrested for brandishing a firearm near the gathering. Mary Moriarty, 59, displayed a weapon from her vehicle, leading to charges of pointing and presenting a firearm. She was placed on a $50,000 bond after her arrest. No other arrests were reported at the protest, which aimed to oppose the Trump administration. Witnesses noted the incident did not deter the protesters, who remain determined to voice their dissent against current governance.
Myrtle Beach witnessed a tense incident during a ‘No Kings’ protest when a woman was arrested for brandishing a firearm near the gathering. The Myrtle Beach Police Department (MBPD) reported that the suspect, identified as 59-year-old Mary Moriarty, a resident of Surfside Beach, South Carolina, was observed displaying a weapon from a vehicle at approximately 2:09 p.m.
Mary Moriarty was taken into custody without incident, facing charges of two counts of pointing and presenting a firearm. Following her arrest, she was placed on a $50,000 bond after a hearing held on Sunday morning. The police department stated that no additional arrests or citations were made related to the protest.
This incident occurred during the second wave of nationwide “No Kings” protests, an effort against the Trump administration with approximately 2,700 events scheduled across the United States. The visibility of such protests highlights ongoing political dissent in the country.
Witnesses to the event, including an individual named Alex Meranco, remarked that the arrest of Moriarty did not create fear among the protesters. Rather, it seemed to reinforce their willingness to express opposition to the current administration, exemplifying the emotional climate of the protests.
Further details surrounding the incident, including the specifics of the arrest warrant, have been requested by local media, but these details are currently unavailable. Such incidents during protests illustrate the complex dynamics of public demonstrations and the legal implications of firearm possession in such contexts.
Context of the ‘No Kings’ Protests
The “No Kings” protests are part of a larger movement aimed at opposing the policies and governance styles of the Trump administration. These protests, gathering large crowds across the U.S., focus on a variety of issues, including civil rights, environmental concerns, and social justice. The recent wave of protests follows a pattern seen since 2016, indicating a sustained level of activism within various communities.
Local Law Enforcement Role
The role of local law enforcement, such as the MBPD, is critical during such protests to maintain public order and safety. The quick response in arresting Moriarty reflects their protocols in managing potentially volatile situations. As protests tend to draw passionate crowds, the presence and actions of law enforcement can significantly impact the nature and atmosphere of these events.
Conclusion
While Mary Moriarty’s case is under scrutiny, the response to her actions during the protest underscores both the ongoing societal tensions and the legal complexities that accompany public demonstrations in America. Observations from witnesses indicate a determination among activists to continue voicing their dissent, despite individual disturbances occurring within the larger movement.
FAQ
- What charges did Mary Moriarty face after her arrest?
- Mary Moriarty was charged with two counts of pointing and presenting a firearm.
- What was the location of the protest where the incident occurred?
- The incident occurred in Myrtle Beach during a ‘No Kings’ event.
- How many events were planned nationwide for the “No Kings” protests?
- About 2,700 events were planned across the U.S. as part of the “No Kings” protests.
- Was anyone else arrested or cited during the protest?
- No additional arrests or citations related to the protest have been reported by MBPD.
- What role does local law enforcement play during protests?
- The role of local law enforcement, such as the MBPD, is to maintain public order and safety during protests.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Brandishing Firearm |
| Suspect | Mary Moriarty |
| Location | Myrtle Beach |
| Charges | Two counts of pointing and presenting a firearm |
| Bail Amount | $50,000 |
| Date of Incident | During the ‘No Kings’ protest |
| Nationwide Protest Count | 2,700 events |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Myrtle Beach Woman Arrested for Gun Threat at Protest
Historic ‘No Kings’ Protests Mobilize Millions Against Trump
Mary Moriarty Arrested at Myrtle Beach Protest
Trump Administration Cancels Visas Over Comments on Death
Residents Oppose Proposed Psychiatric Hospital in Murrells Inlet
Visa Revocations Linked to Comments on Charlie Kirk’s Death
Turning Point USA Organizes ‘All American Halftime Show’
Charlie Kirk’s Death Ignites National Conversation on Political Violence
Jimmy Kimmel’s Show Suspension Sparks Controversy
Jimmy Kimmel Returns to Late-Night Television
Additional Resources
- Myrtle Beach Online
- WEAR TV
- WMBF News
- NBC News
- WBTW News
- Wikipedia: Protests in the United States
- Google Search: Myrtle Beach No Kings protest
- Google Scholar: No Kings protests
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Protest
- Google News: Myrtle Beach protests
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.
