Stampede erupts at South Carolina biker festival, 19 injured in late-night chaos A stampede at the Black Pearl Cultural Heritage and Bike Festival in Atlantic Beach, South Carolina, led to 19 people being evaluated for injuries early Sunday. The incident, described as a brief chain reaction triggered by one person running, resulted in three individuals being transported to the hospital. Despite the injuries, the festival resumed normal operations, with town officials emphasizing the event’s overall success over its 40-year history.

• At least 19 people were evaluated for injuries following a stampede at the Black Pearl Cultural Heritage and Bike Festival in Atlantic Beach, South Carolina.
• The incident occurred around 1:05 a.m. near a stage area along South Ocean Boulevard.
• Three individuals were transported to the hospital, with others potentially self-transporting.
• Horry County Fire Rescue declared a mass casualty incident to coordinate the emergency response.
• Town officials stated the stampede was triggered by one person running, causing a brief chain reaction within the crowd, and that there were no confirmed fights, weapons, or direct threats.
• The festival has been held for over 40 years and attracts large crowds.
• Crowd-control measures, including traffic suspension, were implemented during the weekend.