Myrtle Beach Expands Curfew After Deadly Shootings

Myrtle Beach has implemented a stricter temporary curfew for minors under 18, moving the start time from midnight to 10 p.m., in response to recent fatal shootings and a rise in youth violence. The curfew, effective through July 7, now covers a protected downtown zone as well as all city parks and facilities, with exceptions for work, emergencies, and supervised activities. The measure, declared during an 'extraordinary event,' is enforced by police who may request proof of age and reasons for being out, with violators facing fines or other penalties. Mayor Brenda Bethune and Assistant City Manager Josh Bruegger indicated that while not a complete solution, the move is necessary for public safety and permanent curfew changes are under consideration. Similar curfew expansions have been enacted in Charleston and Washington, D.C. Community responses are mixed, with debate over the effectiveness and appropriateness of the curfew.