A night of celebration turned to tragedy on St Helena Island early Sunday morning as a mass shooting at a crowded bar left at least four people dead and more than 20 injured, according to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.
The horrific incident occurred shortly before 1 a.m. Sunday at Willie’s Bar and Grill, a popular local venue on the coastal island known for its close-knit Gullah Geechee community. Hundreds of people were reported to be at the location for a high school alumni event when the gunfire erupted.
Scene of Chaos and Fear
Deputies arriving on the scene found a large crowd, with numerous individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.3 Multiple victims and witnesses were reported to have fled the bar, running to nearby businesses and properties to escape the shooting.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that four victims were pronounced deceased at the scene. At least 20 others sustained injuries, with four of those transported to area hospitals listed in critical condition.
“This is a tragic and difficult incident for everyone,” the Sheriff’s Office stated, urging the public’s patience as the investigation progresses. “Our thoughts are with all of the victims and their loved ones.”
Investigation Underway
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims, pending notification of their next of kin.
The investigation is ongoing, with the Sheriff’s Office reporting they are looking into “persons of interest”. However, details regarding a motive for the shooting have not been released at this time. The incident has deeply shaken the historically significant Gullah community on St Helena Island, where such acts of violence are rare.
U.S. Representative Nancy Mace, whose district includes the island, posted a message of grief, stating she was “COMPLETELY HEARTBROKEN to learn about the devastating shooting in Beaufort County.”
The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information regarding the incident to contact investigators.
