What Happened at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island?

At least four people were killed and 20 others injured in a mass shooting early Sunday at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, South Carolina. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the tragedy, which unfolded as hundreds gathered at the popular local bar.

Deputies arrived to find a chaotic scene with multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Four people were pronounced dead at the scene, while others were rushed to nearby hospitals. Officials said four of the injured remain in critical condition.

Deadly Shooting at Willie’s Bar: Everything We Know So Far

The incident occurred around 1 a.m. on Sunday during a busy night at Willie’s Bar and Grill. Witnesses reported panic as gunfire erupted, sending people running for cover into nearby businesses and properties. Law enforcement described the scene as chaotic, with hundreds present when the shooting began.

Authorities have not released the names of the victims or provided details on a possible motive. No arrests have been announced as of Sunday afternoon. Investigators are now reviewing surveillance footage, collecting evidence, and interviewing witnesses to piece together what led to the violence.

Roads around the bar remained closed for several hours as forensic teams processed the scene. The sheriff’s office urged the public to stay away from the area and asked anyone with information, videos, or photos from the scene to come forward to assist with the investigation.

Community Shock and Reactions

The shooting has shaken the tight-knit coastal community of St. Helena Island. U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace expressed grief in a social media post, writing she was “completely heartbroken” and offering prayers to those affected by the tragedy. Local officials echoed those sentiments, calling the incident one of the worst mass shootings in the county’s recent history.

First responders from multiple agencies assisted at the scene and during hospital transports. Authorities noted that the scale of the incident posed significant challenges, from treating multiple victims to managing a large, emotional crowd of witnesses and loved ones.

This is a developing story. Officials are still investigating the shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island. More information, including the identities of the victims and possible suspects, is expected as the investigation continues.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island?

A mass shooting broke out early Sunday, leaving four people dead and at least 20 injured. Authorities are still investigating the cause.

Q2: How many people were injured?

Officials confirmed that 20 people were injured, four of whom are in critical condition at nearby hospitals.

Q3: Has a suspect been identified?

As of now, no arrests have been made and no suspects have been publicly identified. Investigators are reviewing evidence and speaking to witnesses.

Q4: Who confirmed the details of the shooting?

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the casualties and is leading the ongoing investigation into the shooting.

Q5: What is the status of the investigation?

The investigation is active. Authorities are seeking information from the public and reviewing all available evidence, including surveillance footage.

References

Associated Press. (2025). South Carolina bar shooting kills at least 4, injures 20. October 12, 2025.

CBS News. (2025). 4 killed, 20 injured in South Carolina bar shooting, sheriff says. October 12, 2025.

Reuters. (2025). Four dead, at least 20 injured in South Carolina island shooting. October 12, 2025.