A peaceful Sunday morning on St. Helena Island, South Carolina, turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy after a mass shooting at a local bar left at least four people dead and more than 20 others injured. The incident, which unfolded just before 1 a.m. on October 12, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit coastal community and reignited national conversations about gun violence in public spaces.
Table of Contents
- What Happened at Willie’s Bar and Grill?
- Confirmed Casualties and Injuries
- Eyewitnesses Describe Panic and Chaos
- Sheriff’s Office Launches Investigation
- Local and National Leaders React
- A Community in Mourning
What Happened at Willie’s Bar and Grill?
According to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island—an unincorporated community known for its Gullah heritage and serene Lowcountry landscapes .
When law enforcement arrived, they found a chaotic scene: dozens of patrons fleeing the venue, some with visible gunshot wounds, while others sought refuge in nearby businesses. Authorities confirmed that hundreds of people were inside or near the bar at the time of the shooting .
Confirmed Casualties and Injuries
The toll is devastating:
- 4 people pronounced dead at the scene
- 4 others in critical condition at area hospitals
- At least 20 total injured, including those with non-life-threatening wounds
Medical teams from Beaufort Memorial Hospital and neighboring counties assisted with triage and transport. Some victims were airlifted due to the severity of their injuries.
Eyewitnesses Describe Panic and Chaos
Witnesses recounted scenes of terror. “People were screaming, running in every direction,” said one patron who asked not to be named. “I heard at least 15 to 20 shots—maybe more. It felt like it lasted forever.”
Another described helping a wounded man crawl behind a parked truck while others broke car windows to escape. The lack of immediate clarity about the shooter or shooters added to the fear, with many assuming there could be multiple gunmen.
Sheriff’s Office Launches Investigation
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed they are actively investigating and have identified “persons of interest,” though no arrests have been made as of Sunday afternoon .
Authorities have not disclosed a possible motive or whether the shooting stemmed from an argument, gang activity, or a targeted attack. The FBI and ATF are providing support to local investigators.
Local and National Leaders React
U.S. Representative Nancy Mace, whose district includes St. Helena Island, expressed her grief on social media: “I’m completely heartbroken by the shooting… Our prayers are with the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this horrific act of violence” .
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster called the incident “an unspeakable tragedy” and pledged full state resources to aid the investigation and support victims’ families.
A Community in Mourning
St. Helena Island, home to fewer than 9,000 residents, is known for its strong sense of community and cultural preservation. The shooting has left locals reeling.
“This isn’t supposed to happen here,” said a longtime resident. “We’re a quiet place. Everyone knows everyone.” Vigils are already being planned at local churches and community centers.
