September 17, 2025

Elderly Woman Charged with Murder in Hilton Head Incident

Hilton Head, September 17, 2025

News Summary

Harriett Kay Recker, 82, has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting her husband, Dennis Recker, 81, at a care facility in Hilton Head. The shooting occurred at the Preston Health Center where staff and first responders were unable to save Dennis. Currently held at the Beaufort County Detention Center, Harriett faces serious charges and awaits a bond hearing as authorities investigate the motive behind this tragic incident.

Hilton Head

Harriett Kay Recker, 82, has been charged with murder after she allegedly shot and killed her husband, Dennis Recker, 81, at a care facility in Hilton Head. The incident occurred on Friday, September 12, at the Preston Health Center located at the Cypress of Hilton Head.

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office received a call about the shooting around 10:30 a.m. Upon arrival, deputies found Harriett Kay Recker beside her husband, who had an apparent gunshot wound. First responders attempted to save Dennis Recker but were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead at 11:26 a.m.

Harriett Kay Recker has been formally charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. She is currently being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center. A bond hearing for Harriett Recker must be scheduled by a circuit court judge, with the Beaufort County circuit court set to resume on September 22.

Details of the Incident

The circumstances leading to the shooting remain unclear, as police have yet to specify a potential motive. Both Harriett and Dennis Recker moved to the Bluffton area in 2012 from Madison, Mississippi. The Preston Health Center provides a range of care services, including short-term, long-term, and memory care, and has a capacity of 58 beds.

Legal Proceedings

As the investigation continues, Harriett Recker’s case will proceed through the legal system. The community is in shock as the events unfold in what was meant to be a supportive environment for the elderly. The authorities are gathering further details surrounding the incident, aiming to clarify the motive and circumstances leading up to the tragic event.

Background Information

The shooting at the Preston Health Center highlights the vulnerabilities faced by residents within care facilities. These establishments are designed to provide security and health services for aging individuals, making the tragic incident an exception rather than the norm. The facility seeks to ensure safety and comfortable living for its residents but now faces scrutiny following this shocking event.

Conclusion

The case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in elder care and the potential for violence in seemingly safe environments. As the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office investigates further and gathers more details, more will be revealed about this tragic situation.

FAQ

What happened to Harriett Kay Recker?

Harriett Kay Recker, 82, is accused of shooting and killing her husband, Dennis Recker, 81.

Where did the incident take place?

The incident occurred at Preston Health Center at the Cypress of Hilton Head, a care facility.

What time did the shooting occur?

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office received a call about the shooting around 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 12.

What happened to Dennis Recker?

Dennis Recker was pronounced dead at 11:26 a.m. after attempts to save him by first responders were unsuccessful.

What charges does Harriett Kay Recker face?

Harriett Kay Recker has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

Where is Harriett Kay Recker now?

She is currently held at the Beaufort County Detention Center.

When will Harriett Kay Recker have a bond hearing?

Her bond must be set by a circuit court judge; the circuit court in Beaufort County resumes on September 22.

How long have Harriett and Dennis Recker lived in the Bluffton area?

Both Harriett and Dennis Recker had lived in the Bluffton area since 2012, after moving from Madison, Mississippi.

What services does Preston Health Center provide?

The Preston Health Center has 58 beds and offers various care services, including short-term, long-term, and memory care.

Has a motive been established for the shooting?

Police have not yet specified a possible motive for the shooting.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder After Shooting Husband
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
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder After Fatal Shooting

Additional Resources

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.

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.

Stay Connected

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit