BEAUFORT, S.C. (AP) — A mass shooting at a crowded bar on St. Helena Island has left four people dead and at least 20 injured, officials said.
The shooting occurred early Sunday at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, officials said. A large crowd was at the scene when sheriff’s deputies arrived and found several people suffering from gunshot wounds.
“Multiple victims and witnesses ran to the nearby businesses and properties seeking shelter from the gun shots,” the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office stated on X.
“This is a tragic and difficult incident for everyone. We ask for your patience as we continue to investigate this incident. Our thoughts are with all of the victims and their loved ones,” the statement added.
Four individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, while at least 20 others sustained injuries, with four people reported in critical condition at hospitals.
The property belongs to Willie Turral Food Services, according to county records. The Associated Press has reached out for comment from Turral.
Attendees were at the bar for a Battery Creek High School alumni tailgate event when the shooting took place, Turral later confirmed to the Post and Courier.
The victims’ identities have not yet been disclosed.
“COMPLETELY HEARTBROKEN to learn about the devastating shooting in Beaufort County,” U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace posted on X. “Our prayers are with the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this horrific act of violence.”
St. Helena Island is recognized as the largest Gullah community on the South Carolina coast, housing an estimated 5,000 individuals of African descent connected to plantation history.
Scholars point out that the isolation of the Gullah has preserved many aspects of their African heritage, including unique dialects and traditional skills such as basket weaving and cast-net fishing.
