4 Killed, 20 Injured in Mass Shooting at St. Helena Island Bar

Four people were killed and at least 20 others were injured in a mass shooting early Sunday at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, according to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to reports of gunfire at the crowded bar, located in the community known as the largest Gullah settlement on the South Carolina coast. Upon arrival, officers found multiple people with gunshot wounds.

The sheriff’s office confirmed that the shooting occurred during a high school alumni event being held at the bar. Bar owner Willie Turral stated that he was inside the establishment when the shooting began outside. He said that shots were fired “in bursts,” causing panic among attendees as they sought safety inside and nearby businesses.

Officials reported that four of the injured individuals were in critical condition as of Sunday afternoon. The identities of the victims have not been released.

In a statement posted on the social platform X, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office described the event as a “tragic and difficult incident for everyone” and asked for the public’s patience during the ongoing investigation.

U.S. Representative Nancy Mace also posted on X, expressing that she was “completely heartbroken” upon learning about the shooting.

Willie’s Bar and Grill is a local establishment that promotes authentic Gullah-inspired cuisine. According to its website, the business considers itself a community hub committed to supporting local youth.

Authorities have not released any information regarding possible suspects or a motive. The investigation remains active.

The event occurred on St. Helena Island, a historically significant community with an estimated population of more than 5,000 Gullah people who trace their ancestry to enslaved West Africans freed after the Civil War.