At least 19 people were injured during a stampede that occurred early Sunday morning at the Black Pearl Cultural Heritage and Bike Festival, held in Atlantic Beach, South Carolina.

The incident occurred shortly after 1:00 in the morning near one of the main stages of the event, according to information from local authorities reported by ABC.

Authorities rule out threats or shots

Acting Atlantic Beach Administrator Titus Leaks explained that the stampede apparently began when a person suddenly began running through the crowd.

According to authorities, the movement generated a chain reaction that caused moments of panic among those attending.

Officials said there were no confirmed reports of fights, weapons or direct threats against public safety.

Horry County Fire Rescue initially described the situation as a “multiple casualty incident.”

Emergency crews evaluated 19 people for injuries considered non-life threatening.

According to the official report, three attendees were transferred to nearby hospitals to receive medical attention.

The situation was quickly controlled

Authorities said crowd control officers acted quickly to contain the chaos and restore order.

After stabilizing the situation, the festival continued to develop normally.

Titus Leaks expressed concern for those affected and assured that the safety of residents and visitors remains the top priority of local authorities.

The Black Pearl Cultural Heritage and Bike Festival has been held every Memorial Day weekend for approximately 40 years.

The event annually attracts motorcyclists and visitors from different parts of the United States to the South Carolina coast, located near Myrtle Beach.

Last year's edition was also marked by several security incidents, including clashes and a shooting on a party boat in the Little River area.