ATLANTIC BEACH, S.C. (WPDE) — A reported stampede near the stage area along South Ocean Boulevard in Atlantic Beach sent multiple people to be evaluated for injuries early in the morning, according to Horry County Fire Rescue (HCFR).

HCFR crews were dispatched at 1:05 a.m. Sunday, to the area for the reported incident. Officials say with help from law enforcement on scene, crews located and evaluated 19 patients.

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None of the injuries were believed to be life-threatening at the time of the response.

Three people were transported to the hospital with injuries.

Officials said it was possible others may have taken themselves to local hospitals.

A mass casualty incident was declared because of the number of reported patients.

The Town of Atlantic Beach provided a statement to ABC 15, saying first and foremost, they want to express their sincere concern for anyone who was injured or impacted. They said the safety and well-being of residents and visitors remains their highest priority.

The statement continued and said that at no time were there any confirmed fights, weapons, or direct threats to public safety. The situation appears to have been triggered when an individual began running, causing a brief chain reaction within the crowd that lasted only seconds.

“SLED and SCDNR personnel responded immediately. SLED personnel quickly accessed the stage and took control of the situation, addressing the crowd multiple times and clearly communicating that no incident had occurred and that individuals had simply started running. Their swift response helped calm attendees and restore order,” according to the town’s statement. “While any incident is unfortunate, it is also important to recognize that this isolated moment does not reflect the overall success of the event. The Black Pearl Cultural Heritage and Bike Festival has been held for over 40 years and continues to attract visitors from across the country because of the positive experience it provides.”The statement continues, “Our focus is on making sure people understand what actually occurred and the measures that were in place,” said Interim Town Manager Titus Leaks. “This was a brief crowd reaction that was quickly identified and managed by law enforcement who were already in position. We planned ahead, we responded quickly, and we will continue to build on that to ensure the safety of everyone who visits Atlantic Beach.”Comment with Bubbles

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FULL STATEMENT FROM THE TOWN OF ATLANTIC BEACH: