St. Helena Island, SC – Authorities reported that a minimum of four individuals lost their lives and 20 more sustained injuries in a shooting incident at Willie’s Bar and Grill during the early hours of Sunday.

 St. Helena Island, SC – Authorities reported that at least four individuals lost their lives and 20 more sustained injuries early on Sunday morning due to a shooting incident at Willie’s Bar and Grill. The violent act occurred just before 1 a.m., leaving the local area in a state of shock.

As per the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the scene to find considerable chaos with numerous individuals afflicted by gunshot injuries. Emergency personnel quickly worked to attend to the wounded while securing the location.

It was confirmed by the sheriff’s office that four individuals were declared deceased at the location. Their names are being withheld until family members are informed. Among the 20 injured persons, four are reported to be in critical condition in local healthcare facilities.

St. Helena Island is a peaceful area situated approximately one hour north of Savannah, Georgia. The shooting at a favored late-night spot has shaken the local residents, as it was reported that hundreds were present in the bar during the incident.

Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of frantic patrons fleeing to safety. Many took refuge in nearby shops and homes as the gunfire rang out. Authorities are calling for anyone with knowledge about the event to come forward to aid in the investigation.

At this moment, no arrests have been made. Nevertheless, officials have stated that law enforcement is actively looking into a person of interest. The sheriff’s office is working together with various local, state, and federal organizations to identify the perpetrator and understand the motive behind the act.

“This is an incredibly tragic event for our community,” the sheriff’s office conveyed in an official statement. “Our condolences go out to the victims and their families during this challenging time.” Support services and crisis counseling are being provided to those impacted.

Investigators are analyzing security recordings from the bar and nearby locations while also interviewing witnesses who experienced the attack. Officials are further scrutinizing the sequence of events to reconstruct exactly how the shooting transpired.

Local officials and community members have shown their disbelief and sadness regarding the event. Numerous individuals are advocating for enhanced safety precautions at community spaces, such as stronger security measures and more effective emergency response strategies to avert comparable disasters in the future.

Officials have highlighted that the inquiry is still in progress. At the same time, the St. Helena Island community is grieving for those who have perished and hopes for the healing of the wounded. Information will be provided as police persist in collecting evidence and looking for the individual accountable for this lethal assault.