News Summary
A shooting during a Memorial Day weekend gathering in Little River left at least 10 people injured. The incident occurred shortly after a party boat docked, and the injured were transported to local hospitals. Police consider the shooting an isolated incident, and two suspects have been arrested. The community is encouraged to provide any information to assist in the ongoing investigation.
South Carolina experienced a violent incident during a Memorial Day weekend gathering, as at least 10 people sustained injuries from a shooting that took place in Little River. The shooting occurred around 9:15 PM on May 25, shortly after a party boat had docked at the Watson Avenue marina. Authorities indicated that one additional person reported a non-gunfire-related injury, bringing the total injuries to at least 11 individuals requiring medical attention.
Most of the injured individuals were rushed to local hospitals by the county’s fire-rescue agency, while investigators believe that others may have arrived at medical facilities in private vehicles. The conditions of those with the most severe injuries are currently described as critical but stable.
Preliminary investigations suggest the shooting stemmed from an altercation that occurred on the charter boat. Following the incident, law enforcement quickly arrived at the scene, prompting a significant police presence as they responded to the emergency.
Local police reported that the shooting is considered an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the community. Despite this, an active investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the violence and to determine the full circumstances surrounding the altercation.
According to reports, one of the injured, a witness named Randy Evans, shared a harrowing account of the events, stating that his son was shot in the ankle and toe. The young man reportedly used his bathing suit as a tourniquet for others who were also injured. This response illustrates the quick thinking and resourcefulness of individuals in a chaotic situation.
During the police response, an officer from North Myrtle Beach accidentally shot himself in the leg. Fortunately, the officer is now reported to be in stable condition. Authorities took swift action to control the scene and ensure the safety of all individuals present.
Two key suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting. The first, Shawon Williams, aged 19, was apprehended and is currently charged as an accessory after the fact to a felony. He was initially detained in Lake County, Illinois, before being brought back to Horry County. Although his bond is set at $15,000, he remains in custody. Williams was expected to face multiple charges, including attempted murder, but will now solely confront the accessory charge. His defense has stated that he played no role in the shooting itself; instead, he was accused of driving the shooter away from the scene after the incident.
The second suspect, a 16-year-old from North Carolina, has been charged with eight counts of attempted murder in relation to the shooting. The 15th Circuit Solicitor’s Office is in the process of seeking a transfer for the minor’s case from Family Court to General Sessions Court, which would allow him to be tried as an adult.
The shooting incident has prompted ongoing legal proceedings and various investigations aimed at uncovering further details surrounding the event. Video footage from the scene has depicted the rapid response of law enforcement, documenting the significant mobilization of resources to manage the aftermath of the tragic incident.
As the Little River community continues to respond to the aftermath of this shocking shooting, officials encourage anyone with additional information or insights into the events leading up to the incident to come forward to assist authorities in their ongoing investigation.
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