News Summary
In response to safety concerns following a fatal shooting in Myrtle Beach, officials reassured the public that existing safety measures would remain in place for upcoming events. Despite the tragic incident that resulted in one death and multiple injuries, the MBPD will increase visibility without introducing new protocols. The lack of communication from city leaders has sparked concern among residents and local businesses about the balance between public safety and economic interests. As Myrtle Beach prepares for weekend events, the community seeks clarity on safety assurances.
Myrtle Beach city officials have responded to growing public safety concerns following a recent fatal shooting in the area. The incident, which occurred on April 26, resulted in the death of 18-year-old Jerrius Davis and left 11 others injured on Ocean Boulevard. In the wake of this tragic event, two city council members have addressed inquiries regarding public safety measures, albeit after a week of silence from local authorities.
The Myrtle Beach Police Department (MBPD) has confirmed that no new safety measures will be implemented for the upcoming weekend events, despite the recent violence. Spokesperson Randolph Angotti indicated that the department is increasing internal staffing levels and seeks support from outside agencies, although specifics on which agencies are assisting and the extent of staffing increases remain undisclosed.
Despite the heightened internal staffing, safety protocols identical to those in place during the time of the shooting will continue. These protocols include a traffic management strategy known as “flushing,” along with intelligence-led policing and the deployment of technology-based resources to ensure the area remains safe for event-goers. The MBPD has stated that officers will increase their visibility on foot, bicycles, and in vehicles as part of these efforts during the weekend activities.
The city’s promotion of the F1rst Friday Art Walk event, which is set to take place shortly after the shooting, has raised eyebrows among residents and local business owners concerned about safety. Notably, this promotional effort fails to mention the recent shooting or any new safety measures. Additionally, the Myrtle Beach Downtown Alliance, the organization hosting the art walk, has not issued any public statements in relation to the shooting or safety plans.
In the absence of formal responses, council member Bill McClure indicated in an email that he believes there is no need for new safety measures, commending the police response to the shooting as professional. However, he acknowledged that there is room for improvement regarding the city’s communication with the public about such incidents and the subsequent measures taken.
His colleague, council member Gregg Smith, expressed appreciation for the professionalism exhibited by the police and suggested that any questions regarding safety measures should be directed to the MBPD. However, other city council members have not commented on the issue before the publication of this article. Local media have reached out to the council for further information concerning the incident.
Additionally, Freedom of Information Act requests have been filed to uncover information related to overtime costs incurred by the police in relation to the recent shooting incident.
Despite the ongoing safety concerns expressed by citizens, the city continues to promote weekend events, indicating a potential conflict between community fears and local economic interests. Events in the downtown area have historically drawn large crowds, leading to worries about safety, particularly in light of the recent tragedy.
The situation highlights a delicate balance between maintaining public enjoyment during local events and ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors in Myrtle Beach, as the community seeks answers and solutions in the aftermath of the tragic shooting.
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Additional Resources
- Myrtle Beach Online: City Officials Respond to Safety Concerns
- Wikipedia
- Spectrum Local News: Shooting in Myrtle Beach
- Google Search: Myrtle Beach Safety Shooting
- My Horry News: Teen Shooting in Myrtle Beach
- Google Scholar: Myrtle Beach Shooting Public Safety
- The State: Opinion on Myrtle Beach Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Myrtle Beach
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local News on Safety
- Google News: Myrtle Beach Shooting April 2025
