Former North Myrtle Beach Sergeant Sues Gun Manufacturer

William Norton requires ongoing treatment and had to undergo two surgeries due to the injuries he sustained.

A former police sergeant with the North Myrtle Beach Police Department has filed a lawsuit.

William Norton is suing a gun manufacturer after his weapon accidentally discharged last year. The situation unfolded during a mass shooting that occurred during Memorial Day weekend in Little River.

Gun manufacturer Sig Sauer Inc. was named in the lawsuit. The company’s operation manual said a firearm will not fire when the switch is in “safe” position. However, Norton confirmed his on-duty M400 rifle was on safety as he approached the gate at the marina. The suit claims his hands were on the gate when his rifle discharged twice.

Norton was not aware of where the shots were coming from at the time and took cover. He currently requires ongoing treatment and had to undergo two surgeries due to the injuries he sustained. He worked for the department for over 20 years.

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