Nineteen individuals sustained injuries during a stampede at the Atlantic Beach Bike Fest. This incident occurred early Sunday morning, as confirmed by Horry County Fire Rescue. Fortunately, all injuries were non-life-threatening. However, three victims required hospitalization for treatment.
Details of the Incident
The stampede was reported shortly after 1 a.m. near the main stage, which featured performances throughout the event. Residents noted the chaos, capturing videos of people fleeing the area. One eyewitness, Angel Williams, described the panic. “I didn’t see anything that alarmed us. However, the crowd started to just run,” she stated.
Response from Authorities
Town officials indicated that there were no confirmed fights, weapons, or threats to public safety. The stampede began when someone unexpectedly ran, triggering a chain reaction. Personnel from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the Department of Natural Resources quickly intervened. They helped to restore calm and order, allowing the event to continue shortly after.
Safety Measures in Place
- Traffic was suspended on Friday and Saturday for safety reasons.
- The main stage was shut down early one evening to manage crowd dynamics.
The town emphasized that the incident is an isolated occurrence amidst many successful events at the Bike Fest, which has been celebrated for over 40 years. Emilia Kornegay, another attendee, mentioned that the event was overall enjoyable, despite the unfortunate moment.
Comparison to Past Events
Last year’s festival also experienced complications, where 12 individuals were hospitalized due to separate fights that incited panic. In light of recent events, town officials plan to continue reviewing safety protocols with public safety partners to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Town’s Commitment to Safety
The town expressed concern for those injured and reiterated its dedication to maintaining a safe atmosphere. “We planned ahead, we responded quickly, and we will continue to enhance our safety measures,” stated Interim Town Manager Titus Leaks. The aim remains to ensure Atlantic Beach is a secure and welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.
