June 28, 2025

Shooting Incident at Holiday Weekend Party Boat Leaves Ten Injured

News Summary

A shooting at a holiday weekend boat party in Little River resulted in ten injuries, with several individuals in critical condition. The incident occurred on the Hurricane II party boat during a DJ cruise. Local law enforcement is investigating the incident, and suspects have been apprehended, raising safety concerns within the community. Fortunately, none of the injuries were life-threatening. The boat company has yet to comment on the incident while ensuring safety measures are prioritized.

South Carolina – A shooting incident at a holiday weekend boat party in Little River has left ten people injured, inciting concern and an ongoing investigation. The incident occurred on Sunday, May 25, 2025, around 9:30 p.m. on the Hurricane II party boat, which had approximately 120 attendees on board.

Fortunately, none of the victims succumbed to their injuries, although several are reported to be in critical condition. In addition to those injured by gunfire, at least one individual required hospitalization for injuries not related to gunfire.

The shooting unfolded near a dock frequently used by private charters for cruises. Investigators are actively working to identify the exact location where the conflict that escalated to gunfire began. A flyer promoting the party detailed a DJ and a three-hour cruise that concluded at 9 p.m., just prior to the occurrence of the shooting.

A specific number of 11 victims received medical treatment following the shooting. The local law enforcement has reported no life-threatening injuries among the victims while the response from emergency services was swift.

Alongside the shooting incident, a North Myrtle Beach police officer accidentally shot himself in the leg while responding to the scene. Fortunately, he is in stable condition at a local hospital receiving care.

As investigators conducted their inquiry, no arrests were made immediately following the incident. However, recent developments indicate that suspects have been apprehended in connection to the mass shooting. Shawon Williams, a 19-year-old from Illinois, was arrested and charged with being an accessory after the fact to felony A, B, C, or murder related to the shooting. He was booked into the J. Reuben Long Detention Center in Horry County on Saturday morning after his return from Illinois, where he was initially arrested. Williams has been granted a $15,000 bond but remains in custody as of the latest reports.

In addition to Williams, a 16-year-old suspect from North Carolina has also been arrested and faces eight counts of attempted murder. The 15th Circuit Solicitor’s Office is seeking to transfer this case to General Sessions Court for adult prosecution.

This incident not only raised concerns among attendees but also sparked alarm throughout the local community, considering Little River’s proximity to tourist-heavy Myrtle Beach, located roughly 20 miles south. The boat company associated with the party has declined to comment on the incident to the media.

The routine enforcement measures are underway as law enforcement officials continue to investigate this alarming situation. With community members deeply affected by the event, it has highlighted ongoing concerns regarding safety in entertainment venues.

In summary, the holiday weekend boat party turned tragic, resulting in multiple injuries but thankfully without fatalities. With ongoing legal proceedings for the suspects involved, authorities are urging safety and diligence within the community.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.