Myrtle Beach, a well-loved coastal city in South Carolina, is responding to a report that names it the second most dangerous beach in the United States.
According to a study by Everly Life, an insurance company, seven out of the ten most perilous beaches are located in Florida. New Smyrna Beach tops the list, followed by Miami Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miramar Beach, Panama City Beach, and Ponce Inlet.
The only non-South Carolina beach mentioned is Oak Island, North Carolina, which is ranked third.
Researchers considered four primary risk elements to evaluate the safety of popular U.S. beaches: crime rates, shark incidents, drownings, and wind conditions. The absence of any West Coast or Northeast beaches in the study is unclear; Everly Life has not responded to queries from Fox News Digital.
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An Everly Life study ranked Myrtle Beach as the second most dangerous beach in the United States. (iStock)
Concerns regarding crime in Myrtle Beach have grown since an incident on April 26, where a shooting in the entertainment district left the shooter dead and 11 others wounded. Officials described the shooting as an isolated event.
However, both locals and city officials refute the claim that Myrtle Beach is unsafe.
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A mass shooting in Myrtle Beach, a popular tourist hotspot, left one person dead and at least 11 injured. (Google Earth)
Meredith Denari, director of communications for Myrtle Beach, labeled the Everly Life study as “misleading, flawed, and clearly biased,” highlighting that it has not undergone peer review in a statement to Fox News Digital.
“I would consider this study ‘fake news.’
She remarked, “Like many reports from life insurance companies, its main intent seems to be generating clicks rather than serving the public interest.” This is illustrated by using outdated and irrelevant data, including shark attack statistics dating back to 1882 and crime data from 2009-2015 and 2023, none of which accurately reflect current conditions. It’s also worth noting that Myrtle Beach was incorporated only in 1938 and had limited access back then. I’d refer to this study as ‘fake news.’”
Myrtle Beach spokesperson Meredith Denari criticized the Everly Life study as “fake news.” (iStock)
Denari emphasized that “Myrtle Beach is a fantastic place for thousands of families to live and visit,” and mentioned that crime rates have been on a downward trend, with revitalization efforts in the downtown area.
She described the recent shooting as “a tragic, isolated event.”
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“Myrtle Beach police, already in the vicinity, responded quickly, likely preventing further injuries by fatally shooting the assailant,” she noted.
Authorities confirmed that one person was killed and 11 others injured during an officer-involved shooting in Myrtle Beach late Saturday night. (Myrtle Beach Police Department Facebook)
“Although details are limited because of an ongoing investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, violence is not tolerated in Myrtle Beach,” she commented. “The events of Saturday do not reflect the experiences of millions who visit the area annually and enjoy our stunning coastline, restaurants, and family-friendly activities.”
Melissa K., a resident of Myrtle Beach for seven years, originally from Connecticut, expressed that she feels safe in the town where she relocated for the milder climate and her job.
“And I’m glad I made the move,” she stated.
Myrtle Beach local Melissa K. shared with Fox News Digital that she feels secure in her southern beach town. (iStock)
She also pointed out that locals typically avoid the downtown area where the shooting occurred. Ocean Boulevard can attract disruptive behavior from visitors who engage in nightlife and rowdy activities. Additionally, she mentioned that Myrtle Beach is generally more affordable than other beach destinations in the Carolinas.
“Ultimately, anything can occur anywhere, at any time. The world has become a bit unsteady.”
Melissa remarked, “Over my seven years here, it has drawn some individuals with unsavory intentions. As locals, we usually don’t wander the boulevard or that district, particularly at night and especially alone. But ultimately, anything can occur anywhere, any time. The world has become a bit unsteady.”
She described the shooting as “surprising” for the community, but added that such serious incidents are not a common occurrence in Myrtle Beach.
“I truly enjoy living here. It’s a superb place for golf, dining, and family vacations,” she noted. “Unfortunately, staying aware of your surroundings is essential anywhere. It remains a lovely destination to chill and enjoy the beach. I feel secure here.”
