At least four people were killed and 20 others injured, including four critically, in a mass shooting during a high school reunion at a South Carolina bar early October 12, authorities said.
The deadly gunfire erupted just before 1 am at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, where a crowd of hundreds had gathered, according to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. All four victims were pronounced dead at the scene. At least one suspect opened fire on the crowd in what officials described as a shocking and tragic attack.
“Upon arriving at the scene, deputies encountered a large crowd, with several individuals suffering from gunshot wounds,” the statement said.
“Authorities learned that hundreds of people were present at the venue when the shooting broke out. In the chaos, multiple victims and witnesses fled to nearby businesses and properties, seeking shelter from the gunfire,” the statement continued. The bar was hosting a tailgate party for an “alumni event” connected to nearby Battery Creek High School when the shooting erupted, owner Willie Turral said.
No arrests have been made so far, but authorities say they are currently “investigating persons of interest.” Victims were transported to the hospital by Beaufort County EMS early on the morning of October 12.
The names of those killed have not yet been released, and the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, according to the sheriff’s office.
“This is a tragic and challenging situation for everyone involved. We ask for your patience as the investigation continues. Our thoughts are with all the victims and their families,” the statement concluded. Henry Wright, a cook at Willie’s who was present during the shooting, described the scene as “chaotic” and told sources that he heard “a lot of shots.” He said patrons rushed to escape through the bar’s back door in a panic as the gunfire erupted.
One of the victims was found dead on the front steps of the bar, while three others were discovered outside, two lying near the front of the restaurant and another by a tree on the property. According to witnesses, one of the victims was a young girl who appeared to be a teenager.
Robert Adams, director of a nearby history and culture nonprofit located just down the street from Willie’s, told the local outlet he heard gunfire that sounded “like a machine gun.” He added that large events at the bar have previously drawn “a lot of problems.”
The shooting has prompted outrage and sorrow from South Carolina politicians, many of whom have spoken out in response to the tragedy.
“I’m completely heartbroken to learn about the devastating shooting in Beaufort County,” Rep. Nancy Mace wrote on social media. “Our prayers are with the victims, their families, and everyone affected by this horrific act of violence. If you have any information, please contact the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office at 843-255-3418 as soon as possible.”
South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott also expressed his condolences on X, writing, “The tragic news out of Beaufort County is heartbreaking. I’m lifting up in prayer the families who lost loved ones and those who were injured. All of us in South Carolina will be holding those affected close in our hearts in the days ahead,” he added.
The bar, previously known as the Island Grill, was also the scene of a shooting less than three years ago. In November 2022, two people were injured after gunfire erupted in the parking lot around closing time.
