MYRTLE BEACH, South Carolina — A veteran Myrtle Beach police detective has been fired and arrested after authorities say he pointed a department-issued firearm at a fellow officer during an argument inside police headquarters, an incident that reportedly stemmed from a dispute over fish being heated in a workplace microwave.

Michael DeBiase, 46, was terminated from the Myrtle Beach Police Department following an internal investigation and now faces a felony charge of pointing and presenting a firearm at another person. The case has attracted widespread attention due to the unusual circumstances surrounding the confrontation and the serious allegations against a sworn law enforcement officer.

According to investigators, the incident occurred inside the Myrtle Beach Police Department’s briefing room. Authorities allege that DeBiase confronted another officer after becoming upset about fish being warmed in a microwave, which reportedly caused a strong odor throughout the office. During the confrontation, investigators say DeBiase removed his department-issued handgun from its holster and pointed it at the other officer.

Department leadership was notified immediately, prompting both an internal review and a criminal investigation. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) was asked to investigate the incident independently while the department’s Office of Professional Standards conducted its own administrative inquiry.

Officials said DeBiase was placed on administrative leave immediately after the alleged confrontation. As the investigation progressed, department officials identified multiple policy violations that ultimately led to the termination of his employment.

In a public statement, Myrtle Beach police emphasized that the conduct alleged in the case does not reflect the standards expected of department personnel. Officials also noted that the department remains committed to accountability and maintaining public trust when allegations of misconduct arise.

Following the completion of the investigation, authorities obtained an arrest warrant charging DeBiase with pointing and presenting a firearm, a felony offense under South Carolina law. He was booked into the J. Reuben Long Detention Center and later released. Court proceedings are expected to move forward in the coming months.

While workplace disagreements are not uncommon in any profession, the allegation that an armed law enforcement officer escalated a dispute by drawing a firearm has raised concerns about judgment, professionalism, and workplace conduct within policing environments.

The case remains under review by prosecutors, and DeBiase is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. Additional details may emerge as court records and investigative findings become available.

The incident has sparked discussion both within law enforcement circles and among the public, serving as a reminder of the heightened standards of conduct expected from officers entrusted with significant authority and responsibility.