Myrtle Beach Pushes Back Against “Fake News” Label After Safety Ranking and Mass Shooting

City officials in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, are fiercely defending their reputation after a new report ranked the popular beach town as one of the most dangerous in the U.S.—a claim they’re calling misleading and outdated.

The ranking, released by life insurance provider Everly Life, listed Myrtle Beach as the second most unsafe beach in the country, based on a combination of crime rates, drownings, wind conditions, and shark attack data. Seven of the top ten beaches named in the study were in Florida, with Myrtle Beach the only South Carolina location listed. The study did not include any beaches from the West Coast or Northeast, raising questions about its methodology.

City Blasts Report as ‘Fake News’

Meredith Denari, communications director for the City of Myrtle Beach, strongly criticized the study’s credibility in a statement to Fox News Digital, labeling it “fake news.”

“The report is misleading, flawed, and clearly skewed,” Denari said. “It relies on outdated statistics—like shark attack data going back to 1882 and wind reports from 2009–2015. None of it reflects what Myrtle Beach is in 2025.”

She also added that the study’s purpose seemed more focused on “clickbait over accuracy.” “Myrtle Beach wasn’t even incorporated until 1938. To suggest we’ve been unsafe since the 1800s is absurd.”

Recent Violence Sparks Concern—but Officials Say It’s Not the Norm

Concerns were heightened recently after an April 26 shooting in the city’s entertainment district left one suspect dead and 11 people injured. However, Denari called the tragedy “an isolated incident” and praised police for their quick action.

“Our officers were nearby and responded instantly, returning fire and preventing further bloodshed,” she said. “This is not the norm in Myrtle Beach.”

The incident remains under investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, but officials maintain that Myrtle Beach remains safe for visitors and residents alike.

Locals Disagree with the Reputation

Melissa K., a Myrtle Beach resident of seven years originally from Connecticut, echoed city officials’ views. She told Fox News Digital she doesn’t feel unsafe, despite the recent headlines.

“I moved here for work and the weather, and I’m happy I did,” she said. “Yes, Ocean Boulevard can get rowdy, especially late at night, but locals generally avoid that area after hours.”

Melissa added, “This city isn’t perfect, but where is? Bad things can happen anywhere. That doesn’t mean Myrtle Beach is dangerous. It’s still a beautiful, affordable place for families, beachgoers, and golfers.”

Tourism Still Strong Despite Negative Press

Myrtle Beach remains one of the top vacation spots on the East Coast, attracting millions of tourists annually with its shoreline, restaurants, and family-friendly activities. Officials say the local police department continues to report a downward trend in crime, while downtown revitalization projects are actively underway.

“Violence has no place here,” Denari stated firmly. “One event should not define the experience of the millions who enjoy this city every year.”