Two officers suffered minor injuries as gunfire and fights erupted at permitted Fourth of July gathering of about 400 people in North Charleston, South Carolina.
Two female police officers sustained minor injuries after being assaulted by members of a crowd during a chaotic response to a permitted block party in North Charleston, South Carolina, on 4 July.
Officers from the North Charleston Police Department responded around 8:30pm local time to reports of gunfire and people firing fireworks at passing vehicles at a longstanding neighbourhood celebration in the Chicora-Cherokee community. About 400 people had gathered for the event, which had been approved in advance by the city.
Gunfire and Fights Erupt at US Gathering:
Upon arrival, officers were told by attendees that several people had begun discharging firearms. They made repeated public announcements that the event was over and directed people to leave the area in an effort to de-escalate the situation. Despite those efforts, multiple fights broke out and additional gunshots were fired.
During the response, multiple officers were physically assaulted. Two female officers suffered minor injuries; both have since returned to work and are reported to be in good spirits, according to Police Chief Ron Camacho.
Police recovered multiple firearms at the scene, including what investigators described as a machine gun or automatic weapons, along with a makeshift spear. No civilians were reported injured by the gunfire.
Video shows that circulated widely on social media showed one female officer attempting to detain a woman before several people rushed in, pulled her to the ground and struck her. One individual appeared to punch the officer while another used an object.
Police Assault Triggers Investigation:
A second officer intervened. Several people were arrested. Reports indicated four juveniles and two adults faced charges that included assault by mob, assault on a police officer while resisting arrest, resisting arrest, possession of a machine gun and breach of peace. The investigation remained active, with the possibility of further arrests as officers reviewed body-worn camera footage and other evidence.
In a statement, the North Charleston Police Department said: “Attacks on law enforcement are unacceptable and those responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The safety of our residents and visitors remains our highest priority.”
South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson condemned the violence, stating there was “no place in South Carolina for mob violence or attacks on law enforcement.” Neighbours who called emergency services earlier in the evening reported hearing repeated gunfire and seeing people openly carrying guns, describing the situation in some cases as escalating dangerously.
The incident has drawn attention to the challenges of managing large gatherings in the area and the risks faced by officers responding to holiday celebrations that turn disorderly.