St. Helena Island, South Carolina, October 13, 2025
News Summary
A mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill in St. Helena Island left four people dead and over 20 injured during a Battery Creek High School alumni event. Eyewitnesses reported chaos as patrons fled amid gunfire. Local authorities are investigating the incident, which has devastated the community and prompted a memorial for the victims. Political leaders have called for unity against gun violence as the investigation continues with no arrests made yet.
St. Helena Island, South Carolina – A mass shooting occurred at Willie’s Bar and Grill in the early hours of Sunday, October 12, 2025, claiming the lives of four individuals and leaving over 20 others injured. The incident took place just before 1 a.m. during a Battery Creek High School alumni event, which saw a large crowd attendance of hundreds.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is currently leading the investigation into the shooting. Eyewitness accounts indicate chaos ensued as patrons fled to nearby businesses for safety while gunfire erupted. Four victims, identified as Kashawn Glaze (22), Chiraad Smalls (33), A’shan’tek Milledge (22), and Amos Gary (54), were pronounced dead at the scene after being struck by gunfire. Additionally, at least four of the injured individuals remain in critical condition in local hospitals.
The total number of injuries has been estimated at 20, although it remains unclear how many of these were directly caused by gunfire. Items such as shoes, glasses, and jewelry were discovered in the vicinity, suggesting a hurried escape by those present during the attack.
The event at Willie’s Bar was initially described as festive before quickly descending into chaos. The owner, William Turral, confirmed that one of the deceased was a member of the security personnel on duty at the time of the shooting. Furthermore, the Beaufort County School District clarified that the alumni event was neither sanctioned nor organized by the school administration.
A memorial has since been established outside Willie’s Bar and Grill, where community members have gathered to express their condolences. Local and state political leaders, including U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace and U.S. Rep. James Clyburn, have expressed their heartbreak over the shooting, calling for unity against the pervasive issues associated with gun violence.
As of Monday, October 13, 2025, the sheriff’s office is actively investigating persons of interest but has not made any arrests in connection with the shooting. Willie’s Bar and Grill, renowned for its authentic Gullah cuisine, is situated near the intersection of Dr. Martin Luther King Drive and Sea Island Parkway. St. Helena Island holds historical significance as the epicenter of Gullah Geechee culture, which descends from African enslaved individuals.
Key Facts:
- Date of Incident: October 12, 2025
- Location: Willie’s Bar and Grill, St. Helena Island, South Carolina
- Casualties: Four deceased, at least 20 injured
- Investigation: Led by Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, no arrests made yet
Community Response:
A memorial has been established in honor of the victims, with the community coming together to support the grieving families affected by this tragic event.
Cultural Significance:
St. Helena Island, where the shooting occurred, is known for its rich Gullah Geechee culture, highlighting the unique heritage of the area.
Current Status:
Authorities continue to investigate, striving to bring those responsible to justice while the community seeks healing and support in the aftermath of this horrific incident.
FAQs
What happened at Willie’s Bar and Grill?
A mass shooting occurred at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, South Carolina, in the early hours of Sunday, October 12, 2025.
What were the casualties from the incident?
Four people were killed, and at least 20 others were injured during the incident.
Who were the deceased individuals?
The deceased individuals were identified as Kashawn Glaze (22), Chiraad Smalls (33), A’shan’tek Milledge (22), and Amos Gary (54).
Who is leading the investigation?
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into the shooting.
What has the community’s response been?
A memorial has been set up outside Willie’s Bar and Grill, with many community members expressing condolences.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | October 12, 2025 |
| Location | Willie’s Bar and Grill, St. Helena Island, SC |
| Casualties | Four dead, over 20 injured |
| Investigation Status | No arrests made, investigation ongoing |
| Cultural Context | Gullah Geechee heritage |
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Additional Resources
- ABC News
- Wikipedia: St. Helena Island, South Carolina
- Live 5 News
- Google Search: St. Helena Island shooting
- WTOC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mass Shooting
- WJCL
- Google News: St. Helena Island mass shooting
- Post and Courier
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