Hilton Head Island, September 16, 2025
News Summary
A tragic incident unfolded in Hilton Head Island, where an 82-year-old woman, Harriett Kay Recker, has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting her 81-year-old husband, Dennis Recker. The shooting occurred at the Preston Health Center, raising concerns about safety in care facilities. Harriett is currently held without bond while awaiting a court appearance. Authorities have yet to determine a motive for the shooting, and the investigation is ongoing.
Hilton Head Island – 82-Year-Old Woman Faces Murder Charges After Husband’s Death
An 82-year-old woman, Harriett Kay Recker, has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting her husband, Dennis Recker, aged 81, at the Preston Health Center in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. The tragic incident occurred on Friday morning at approximately 10:30 a.m. when deputies responded to multiple reports of gunfire at the care facility.
Upon arrival, law enforcement officials found Harriett Kay Recker next to her husband, who was suffering from a gunshot wound. Although emergency medical personnel attempted to save him, Dennis Recker was pronounced dead at 11:26 a.m., just minutes after authorities reached the scene.
Harriett Kay Recker has now been formally charged with murder and possession of a firearm during a violent crime. Currently, she is being held at the Beaufort County Jail without bond while awaiting her initial hearing in front of a judge. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has indicated that the investigation into the shooting is ongoing; however, a motive for the shooting remains unclear.
The Preston Health Center, where the incident took place, is a skilled care facility that provides a range of services including short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, and memory care options. This facility caters to the needs of various patients, particularly older adults who require assistance.
The Reckers had been residents of the Bluffton area since 2012, having previously lived in Madison, Mississippi. As the couple faced aging and health issues, they turned to the Preston Health Center for support, underscoring the need for adequate care in their later years.
Circuit court proceedings in Beaufort County are scheduled to resume on September 22, at which time a bond hearing for Harriett Kay Recker may be held.
Summary of the Incident
- Incident Date: Friday, around 10:30 a.m.
- Location: Preston Health Center, Hilton Head Island, SC
- Victim: Dennis Recker, 81
- Accused: Harriett Kay Recker, 82
- Charges: Murder, Possession of a firearm during a violent crime
- Status: Held without bond, awaiting court appearance
Background Context
The Preston Health Center is known for offering comprehensive care services, emphasizing the importance of high-quality support for aging individuals and those with health complications. The Reckers’ move to the Bluffton area to seek care illustrates a growing trend among older adults who require specialized assistance in a designed facility.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains shocked by the events that took place within a health facility where safety and care are paramount. The repercussions of this incident may resonate within families reliant on such care centers.
FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges has Harriett Kay Recker faced?
Harriett Kay Recker has been charged with murder and possession of a firearm during a violent crime.
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred on Friday at around 10:30 a.m.
What is the current status of Harriett Kay Recker?
Harriett Kay Recker is currently held in the Beaufort County Jail without bond, awaiting an initial court appearance.
What is the Preston Health Center?
The Preston Health Center is a skilled care facility providing a variety of services including short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, and memory care.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | Friday, around 10:30 a.m. |
| Location | Preston Health Center, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Victim | Dennis Recker, 81 |
| Accused | Harriett Kay Recker, 82 |
| Charges | Murder, Possession of a firearm during a violent crime |
| Status | Held without bond in Beaufort County Jail |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder in Nursing Home Shooting
Beaufort Youth Murder Case: Charges Filed Against Suspect
Elderly Woman Charged in Fatal Shooting of Husband
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder in Hilton Head Shooting
82-Year-Old Woman Arrested for Murder in Beaufort County
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder of Her Husband
Elderly Woman Charged With Murder in South Carolina Shooting
Fatal Shooting in Hilton Head Leads to Arrest of Elderly Woman
Charlie Kirk Fatally Shot During Speaking Event
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder After Fatal Shooting
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Hilton Head Island Birdsong Way Shooting
- Island Packet: Hilton Head Island Shooting Incident
- WRAL: 82-Year-Old Charged with Killing Husband
- Google Search: Hilton Head Island shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
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.
