A mass shooting early Sunday at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, South Carolina, left four people dead and at least 20 others wounded, according to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responding shortly before 1 a.m. encountered a large crowd and multiple gunshot victims.
In the ensuing chaos, many victims and witnesses fled to nearby homes or businesses for cover. Among those injured, four were in critical condition and were transported to local hospitals. At the scene, four victims were pronounced dead. Identities of the deceased and wounded have not been released.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed it is actively investigating the shooting. Deputies described the scene as chaotic, noting that hundreds of people were present when the gunfire erupted. “Multiple victims and witnesses ran to the nearby businesses and properties seeking shelter from the gun shots,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
In the same post, officials asked for the community’s patience and understanding as investigators work to piece together what happened. They said detectives were interviewing witnesses, gathering forensic evidence, and reviewing nearby security footage to establish a timeline of events. ”This is a tragic and difficult incident for everyone,” the Sheriff’s Office wrote. “Our thoughts are with all of the victims and their loved ones.”
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Authorities added that incidents of this scale often take time to process properly, as the priority is to ensure accuracy and sensitivity toward those affected. They urged residents to avoid sharing unverified information online and assured the public that updates would be released as soon as possible through official channels.
U.S. Representative Nancy Mace expressed her sorrow on social media, stating she was “completely heartbroken” and offering prayers for the victims and their families.
At present, no suspect has been publicly named, though authorities have indicated there are persons of interest under scrutiny.
Investigators continue to examine the scene, interview witnesses, and review surveillance footage and physical evidence. The identities of the victims will remain withheld until families are formally notified. As the probe proceeds, law enforcement hopes to identify a suspect or suspects and learn the motive behind the attack.
