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ATLANTIC BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — An incident that occurred early Sunday morning during the Black Bike Week celebrations in Atlantic Beach was described by the interim town manager as being exaggerated on social media. This comes after Horry County Fire Rescue’s portrayal of the event, which created a buzz beyond its actual context.
Nineteen individuals sustained injuries in what was labeled by the fire rescue as a “stampede incident” near a stage on South Ocean Boulevard shortly after 1 a.m. Although officials confirmed that the injuries were minor and no weapons were involved, the incident was categorized as a “mass casualty” event due to the number of people affected.
This report quickly caught the attention of national audiences and reignited discussions among some about potentially canceling the event. Officially known as the Black Pearl Cultural Heritage and Bike Festival, the gathering has faced scrutiny over the years.
Interim town manager Titus Leaks expressed that more context regarding the “mass casualty” label would have been useful. He emphasized that most injuries were minor, such as scrapes and bruises, and were treated at the scene. Leaks suggested that clearer communication from emergency services to the media might have curbed the spread of misleading information, which can skew public perception of the festival.
The festival, one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the country, began in 1980 as an alternative to the Spring Rally, which dates back to 1940.
“Black bikers were not welcomed during the Myrtle Beach Spring Rally, which takes places the week prior. In response, a space was created where they could gather, feel welcomed and celebrate freely. Over the years, the event has grown significantly and continues to represent not just entertainment, but a legacy of inclusion, perseverance and cultural pride,” Leaks said.
Officials said on Sunday that law enforcement was strategically placed to maximize public safety, and that many of the injuries were minor cuts and bruises.
“Characterizing it as a ‘stampede’ is an overstatement and does not accurately reflect what happened,” Leaks said. “It is disheartening that a single incident — now being amplified beyond its context — has cast a shadow over the entire event.”