Bluffton, August 27, 2025

News Summary

A potential explosive device report at a Bluffton CVS Pharmacy prompted immediate evacuations of nearby stores, including Target and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Law enforcement responded promptly, conducting thorough searches of the area with no threats found. The situation was resolved by evening, allowing the public to return safely. The incident remains under investigation, and authorities encourage the community to report any suspicious activity.

Bluffton Store Declared Safe After Threat of Explosive Device Prompts Evacuations

Bluffton, SC – A report of a potential explosive device at a CVS Pharmacy inside Target led to multiple evacuations and an extensive law enforcement response on Tuesday afternoon. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office received the alarming report just after 3 p.m., prompting immediate action to ensure public safety.

The possible threat was located outside the CVS within the Target shopping complex on Fording Island Road. Responding swiftly, authorities evacuated Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and the nearby CVS, closing the area to the public while they initiated an investigation.

An intensive search of the vicinity was conducted by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Drone Unit and the Explosive Ordinance Unit. These teams thoroughly examined the area for any suspicious packages or explosive devices. Fortunately, after meticulous searches, no threats were identified.

By approximately 7:15 p.m., law enforcement declared the area safe, allowing the public to return to the stores. Several agencies contributed to the response effort, including the Bluffton Township Fire District, Bluffton Police Department, and the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit.

The incident is still under active investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, and they encourage anyone with further information to come forward. The public can reach the non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County via the P3 Tips app or by calling 844-847-7238.

Key Points

• Incident reported just after 3 p.m. on Tuesday.
• Evacuations included Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and CVS.
• Extensive search conducted with no threats found.
• Area declared safe at approximately 7:15 p.m.
• Active investigation remains ongoing.

Context and Background

Though the precise motive behind the initial threat remains unclear, these types of incidents are taken very seriously by law enforcement to ensure public safety. The coordinated response showcases the multi-agency collaboration often necessary in emergency scenarios, particularly those involving potential explosive threats. The technology employed, including drones, reflects advancements in enhancing safety protocols and ensuring thorough investigations.

This incident underscores the importance of vigilant reporting, with authorities urging community members to maintain awareness and report suspicious activity. Public cooperation aids in effective responses to potential threats, ultimately safeguarding the community.

FAQ

Chart of Key Features

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Bomb Threat Leads to Evacuation in Bluffton Shopping Area
Bluffton Declares Shopping Area Safe After Bomb Threat
Bluffton Shopping Area Declared Safe After Bomb Threat Investigation
Lowcountry Council of Government Initiates Community Survey for Transportation Resilience
Tragic House Fire Claims Lives on Fripp Island
Beaufort County Battles Fires Sparked by Lightning Strikes
Flood Advisory Canceled for Beaufort and Jasper Counties
Significant Flooding Crisis in Beaufort Area Due to Tropical Storm Debby
Flash Flood Warning Issued for Beaufort County
Beaufort County Residents Advised to Prepare for Hurricane Season

Additional Resources

• WTOC: Possible Bomb Threat Investigation in Bluffton
• Google Search: Bluffton bomb threat
• Live 5 News: Beaufort County Deputies Investigate Suspicious Device
• Wikipedia: Explosive devices
• ABC News 4: Deputies Investigating Possible Explosive Device
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Bomb
• Island Packet: Bluffton Bomb Threat Incident Report
• Google News: Beaufort County explosive device
• WSAV: Law Enforcement Investigating Threat in Bluffton
• Google Scholar: explosive device investigation

Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.