By BC News Staff Writer
NMB, SC — The North Myrtle Beach Police Department has issued a statement after a photograph circulated on social media showing an officer holding what appeared to be a shotgun. According to the department, the firearm was a less‑than‑lethal shotgun, a tool carried by trained officers to provide additional options for safely managing rapidly evolving situations while reducing the likelihood that deadly force will be necessary.
Police say the image was taken during a large disturbance on Friday, June 26, 2026, at approximately 10:13 p.m., when officers responded to the area of 14th Avenue South and Ocean Boulevard following numerous 911 calls. Callers reported a large fight involving several hundred individuals and the use of fireworks.
When officers arrived, they encountered what the department described as a chaotic scene, with large groups running in multiple directions, fighting, and creating significant public safety concerns.
All available North Myrtle Beach patrol officers responded to restore order, while the Horry County Police Department assisted by handling other calls for service throughout the city.
As a precaution, officers deployed less‑than‑lethal shotguns in case the situation required their use. Police emphasize that no less‑than‑lethal rounds were fired. According to the department, the visible presence of these tools helped officers maintain control while dispersing the crowd and protecting the public.
The department also noted that over the past week, officers have responded to numerous calls for service in the Crescent Beach area after hundreds of young adults from the same Virginia school district coordinated vacation rentals within a three‑ to four‑block area.
While most have been cooperative, the unusually large concentration has led to quality‑of‑life concerns for residents, including noise complaints, large crowds, pedestrian safety issues, and several incidents requiring police intervention.
“Our priority remains the safety of our residents, visitors, and officers,” the department said, thanking the public for its continued support and understanding as officers work to maintain order during these challenging situations.
© 2026 BCDollarSaver.com. All rights reserved.
Be the first to comment