Tensions boiled over on a charter boat near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, during a startling incident that cast a somber shadow over Memorial Day weekend. Ten people were hurt when a dispute between passengers turned into gunfire. The already dramatic scene was heightened when a police officer suffered a self-inflicted injury amid the chaos.
Gunfire Erupts on Charter Boat
The terrifying ordeal unfolded around 9:30 p.m. near a marina in Little River, South Carolina. As passengers disembarked from the charter boat operated by Little River Fishing Fleet, gunshots rang out, and at least 11 people were sent to hospitals. Additional injuries occurred when several individuals arrived at medical facilities via private vehicles.
Horry County (Myrtle Beach) officials are reporting that after the “Rock Tha Boat Memorial Weekend Day Boat Party” boat returned to the dock and was unloading a 100+ person fight broke out and at least 10 people were shot.
Plan accordingly…#CityLife #MyrtleBeach… pic.twitter.com/PH3TXzs04a
— Mrgunsngear (@Mrgunsngear) May 26, 2025
While the situation remains under intense investigation, the authorities have declared it an isolated event with minimal community risk. However, the panic spread quickly when a North Myrtle Beach police officer accidentally shot himself in the leg while responding to the scene. The officer was stabilized at a local hospital.
Suspects and Motives Unidentified
No suspects or motives have been identified, but detectives continue to work diligently to locate those responsible. The scene was flooded with emergency response vehicles as a team of officers meticulously combed through the chaos to gather evidence. An online flyer had advertised a lively party with a DJ meant to wrap up by 9 p.m., yet the night took a devastating turn.
We're speaking to Horry County and North Myrtle Beach police about the charter boat shooting in Little River, injuring 11 people and an officer when his rifle accidentally discharged.https://t.co/8VBaIxqDxV pic.twitter.com/46oNkrLk09
— Simon Williams (@SimonWPDE) May 27, 2025
“When they got off the boat, they just started shooting each other” – Harold Wiegel.
Video footage shows a massive response of police cars and ambulances at the scene. The shooting, which had many passengers fearing for their lives, also drew curious onlookers who were stunned by the sudden eruption of violence. The incident occurred about 20 miles northeast of Myrtle Beach.
Community Awaits Answers
In the wake of this shooting, community members are left searching for answers amid the confusion. Authorities aim to reassure residents and visitors that their safety is the top priority. By resolving this case promptly, police hope to mitigate fears of subsequent violent acts as the summer season approaches.
“A North Myrtle Beach police officer responding to the shooting accidentally shot himself in the leg at a marina about 3 miles (5 kilometers) away and is in the hospital in stable condition,” – North Myrtle Beach spokeswoman Lauren Jessie.
North Myrtle Beach officials continue to work with the public in a show of unity and resilience. The community’s resolve remains unshaken as they support the victims and anticipate swift justice for everyone involved. Little River is now left reflecting on a weekend that took an unexpectedly tragic course.
Sources:
https://apnews.com/article/south-carolina-shooting-little-river-7525cdaf1ffa5ac7b7e15c96fe74ecc0