19 injured in festival crowd stampede triggered by person running: Officials
Yahoo • • general
Key Points:
- At least 19 people were injured in a crowd stampede at the Black Pearl Cultural Heritage and Bike Festival in Atlantic Beach, South Carolina, early Sunday morning, with three hospitalized for non-life-threatening injuries.
- The stampede was reportedly triggered when an individual suddenly ran through the crowd near a stage, causing panic, but no fights, weapons, or direct threats were confirmed.
- Police and fire rescue teams quickly restored order, and the event resumed normal operations shortly after the incident.
- The festival has been held annually for 40 years over Memorial Day weekend, attracting motorcycle enthusiasts nationwide, though last year's event saw violent incidents including a shooting and multiple fights.
- Authorities emphasized their concern for those injured and reaffirmed their commitment to the safety and well-being of residents and visitors.