‘Just got to help’: Fundraisers, businesses, billboards honor fallen North Myrtle Beach officer

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) – The Grand Strand community continues to remember Sgt. Gordon William Best.

The North Myrtle Beach police officer died in the early-morning hours of New Year’s Day. A spokesperson for the city said Best was responding to a call in Barefoot Resort when he lost control of his car on the wet roadway and crashed into a utility pole.

According to officials, Best started as an intern before becoming a patrol officer in October 2013. He was promoted to sergeant in February 2019.

Best is survived by his parents, his wife, Taylor, and two young children.

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A man who lives part-time in the Barefoot area of North Myrtle Beach is organizing a fundraiser to help Best’s family.

It will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. January 17 at the Residents Clubhouse at Barefoot Resort, which is 3100 Marsh Glen Drive.

Organizer Kevin Quinn said he felt the need to help out after hearing the news of Best’s passing.

“I don’t even know the officer, but just because it’s in our community, I mean, I’ve been down there 12 years, I’m there five months out of the year, but to hear that story and everyone talking, I’m like, ‘Well, I’ve got to do something,’ so just got to help,” Quinn said.

More than 70 people also showed up in North Myrtle Beach over the weekend for a walk in remembrance of Best.

Area businesses are doing their part to honor and remember Best.

Alligator Adventure updated its sign with a thin blue line, a symbol used to show respect to a fallen police officer. Across the street, The Kitchen Table Restaurant is offering condolences to his family.

The North Myrtle Beach Department of Public Safety also thanked HONORBANDS and the Fraternal Order of Police for donating custom-made mourning bands that feature the number 178, which was Best’s badge number.

We would like to thank HONORBANDS, Coastal Engraving and the Faternal Order of Police (FOP) for donating custom made...
Posted by North Myrtle Beach Department of Public Safety on Monday, January 4, 2021

“They supplied enough mourning bands for every officer and firefighter in our department to wear to honor our fallen brother, Sgt. Gordon Best. We appreciate your support through this difficult time,” the department stated.

Many motorists on their morning drive will see an electronic billboard on U.S. 17 Bypass in the Surfside Beach area that is honoring Best.

The billboard says “Sergeant Gordon Best. End of Watch 1-1-21.”

A similar billboard was made a few months ago when Myrtle Beach Police Officer Jacob Hancher died in the line of duty.

Additionally, a fund for Best’s family has surpassed its goal, hitting almost $36,000 Monday morning. To donate, click here.

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