COLUMBIA, S.C. — A mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island has left four people dead and 16 others injured. The tragic incident, which occurred during a large community gathering, has devastated the local populace and sparked ongoing investigations by law enforcement.
Beaufort County Sheriff P.J. Tanner reported that despite the presence of approximately 700 partygoers at the bar, no witnesses have come forward to identify the shooters. It’s ridiculous that we have yet to get a witness that can tell us who the shooters are,” Tanner remarked, highlighting the daunting task facing investigators.
As forensic teams analyze DNA and ballistic evidence from the scene, Tanner emphasized the community's role in aiding the investigation. He suggested that fear of retribution might be hindering witnesses from speaking up, urging them to share information anonymously through Crimestoppers.
The shooting reportedly stemmed from a fight among individuals familiar with each other. Investigators continue to collect evidence, including shell casings and video footage, in the hopes of constructing a solid case.
Among those killed were Kashawn Glaze, 22; Chiraad Smalls, 33; Amos Gary, 54; and A’shan’tek Milledge, 22. Sheriff Tanner deemed the event horrific but not surprising, given the chaotic nature of the large gathering inside and outside the bar.
The only bar serving Gullah cuisine on the island, Willie’s Bar has been described as a community pillar dedicated to supporting the local youth. The Gullah community of St. Helena Island, which descends from enslaved West Africans, exhibits a rich cultural heritage, firmly stating its commitment to preserving its history and societal values.
The sheriff asserts that efforts will be made to ensure that any eventual charges against suspects will hold up in court, promising to protect the integrity and dignity of the victims' families throughout the judicial process.
