A crowd surge at an annual motorcycle rally in South Carolina over the Memorial Day weekend left at least 19 people injured, officials said.
A mass casualty incident was declared due to the number of patients. First responders, with the assistance of on-scene law enforcement, evaluated 19 people at the scene for injuries, none of which are believed to be life-threatening, officials noted.
Horry County Fire Rescue said three people were taken to the hospital and that others may have sought medical treatment on their own.
"All agencies were strategically positioned, actively monitoring the crowd, and prepared to respond immediately if needed," the statement reads in part. "At no time were there any confirmed fights, weapons, or direct threats to public safety."
Atlantic Beach officials said the stampede appeared to have been triggered when a person began running, setting off a chain reaction in the crowd that lasted only seconds.
"This was a brief crowd reaction that was quickly identified and managed by law enforcement who were already in position," Interim Town Manager Titus Leaks said. "We planned ahead, we responded quickly, and we will continue to build on that to ensure the safety of everyone who visits Atlantic Beach."
Officials told WMBF that authorities on scene responded immediately, with South Carolina Law Enforcement Division personnel taking the stage to address the crowd and tell festival attendees what had occurred.
The town said the weekend-long event resumed normal operations once the situation had been brought under control, adding that officials will continue reviewing all aspects of the festival with public safety partners to identify any additional improvements that can be made moving forward.
"We remain committed to ensuring that Atlantic Beach continues to be a safe and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike," officials said.