According to police, the atmosphere changed dramatically later in the evening. Around 8:30 p.m., emergency calls began reporting gunfire and fireworks being launched toward passing vehicles. Officers were dispatched immediately and, upon arriving, were told by attendees that several individuals had begun firing guns during the gathering.
“At approximately 8:30 p.m., officers began receiving reports of gunfire and individuals firing fireworks toward passing vehicles. Officers responded immediately and were informed by attendees that several people had begun discharging firearms,” the department said.
As officers attempted to regain control of the situation, they reportedly recovered multiple dangerous weapons.
During the response, “multiple firearms and a makeshift spear were recovered,” and two female officers suffered injuries after being physically assaulted, according to police.
Video footage circulating online appears to show one of the female officers being forced to the ground during a struggle involving multiple individuals. The recording captures punches being thrown while another person strikes the officer with what appears to be a stick as she struggles with a male suspect.
Additional officers quickly moved in to assist their colleague. The video shows one officer deploying a Taser during the confrontation before subduing a suspect who appeared to have the female officer in a headlock. The footage also shows at least two people being taken into custody as officers worked to restore order.
WATCH:
Following the incident, the North Charleston Police Department also released photographs of several weapons that investigators say were recovered at the scene, including firearms and the makeshift spear referenced in the department’s statement.
The viral video was first published by the Carolina Courier Substack, which reported additional details from law enforcement officials investigating the incident.
According to the outlet, North Charleston Police confirmed that multiple arrests were made at the scene while detectives continue working to identify additional individuals who may have participated in the assault or other criminal activity.
Per the Carolina Courier:
“North Charleston Police tell The Carolina Courier that multiple arrests in connection with the incident were made on site, with investigators working to identify additional suspects for interrogation and arrest.”
The report further stated that law enforcement agencies across the region coordinated resources during several Independence Day incidents.
“According to law enforcement sources, both North Charleston and Charleston City made requests for mutual aid from neighboring jurisdictions during several incidents over the Independence Day holiday.”
The investigation remains active as authorities continue reviewing video evidence and gathering witness statements. Officials have indicated that additional arrests remain possible as detectives work to identify everyone allegedly involved in the violence.
The assault has drawn significant public attention online, with many expressing concern over the attack on responding officers and the broader public safety challenges posed by large gatherings that turn violent. Police have not announced the identities of all suspects involved, and investigators are asking anyone with information or additional video evidence to assist with the ongoing investigation.
