September 24, 2025

Police Investigate Two Shooting Incidents at Beaufort Walmart

Beaufort SC, September 24, 2025

News Summary

Two shooting incidents occurred at the Walmart in Beaufort on Monday evening, raising public safety concerns. The first incident involved three gunshots linked to road rage, while the second saw four shots fired related to a prior altercation. No gunshot injuries were reported, but one victim sustained minor injuries during a physical confrontation. John Michael Findlay was arrested along with his son, facing multiple charges, including discharging firearms within city limits.

Beaufort – Police responded to two separate shooting incidents at the Walmart store in Beaufort on Monday evening, raising concerns from the local community. The first incident occurred just minutes before 5 p.m., featuring approximately three gunshots, reportedly linked to an alleged road rage occurrence. Fortunately, no suspects were identified, and there were no injuries reported from this first shooting.

Later that evening, at around 7:40 p.m., a second shooting took place in the same parking lot, involving about four gunshots. This incident stemmed from an altercation related to a prior event that occurred outside of Beaufort police’s jurisdiction. During this altercation, 52-year-old Beaufort resident, John Michael Findlay, fired shots targeting a victim’s vehicle. It was confirmed that this vehicle was struck by gunfire. Throughout both incidents, no gunshot injuries were reported; however, the victim did sustain minor injuries due to an initial physical confrontation.

Findlay’s 20-year-old son was also arrested in connection with the second incident, facing allegations of punching out the driver-side window of the targeted vehicle and assaulting the driver. John Michael Findlay has since been charged with discharging firearms within the city limits and two counts of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature. This particular charge is classified as a felony in South Carolina, which could result in a punishment of up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

As of Tuesday noon, John Michael Findlay had been granted cash bonds totaling $51,087.50, but he had not yet posted bail. His son faces charges of malicious injury to property and misdemeanor assault and battery, and he has been released on personal recognizance bonds totaling $3,212.50, meaning he would not have to pay unless he violated court conditions.

Beaufort police secured the scene by 9:10 p.m. and confirmed that there was no ongoing threat to the public following the incidents. Earlier reports had indicated some uncertainty regarding a potential connection between the two shooting events. Investigators determined that the first incident did not result in property damage, while the second resulted in damage to the victim’s vehicle. Police arrived at the Walmart location around 8 p.m. after reports of gunfire had emerged.

The community has been alerted to the seriousness of such incidents, emphasizing the need for public safety and vigilance. Law enforcement continues to investigate the occurrences to gather more details and ensure accountability.

FAQ

What incidents occurred at the Walmart store in Beaufort on Monday evening?

Police responded to two shooting incidents at the Walmart store in Beaufort on Monday evening.

What was the nature of the first shooting incident?

The first incident occurred minutes before 5 p.m. and involved approximately three gunshots, related to an alleged road rage incident. No suspects were identified, and no injuries were reported.

What happened in the second shooting incident?

The second incident involved about four gunshots and occurred around 7:40 p.m. in the same parking lot. It was linked to an altercation over a prior incident outside Beaufort police’s jurisdiction.

What charges were filed against John Michael Findlay?

John Michael Findlay was charged with discharging firearms within the city limits and two counts of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature.

What charges does his son face?

Findlay’s 20-year-old son faces charges of malicious injury to property and misdemeanor assault and battery.

Did anyone sustain injuries from the shootings?

Both incidents did not result in any gunshot injuries; the victim sustained minor injuries from the initial physical altercation.

What actions did Beaufort police take after the incidents?

The Beaufort Police secured the scene by 9:10 p.m. and declared no ongoing threat to the public.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Suspect in Custody Following Shots Fired in Beaufort
Beaufort County Prepares for Upcoming School Year
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Beaufort County Shooting Leaves Two Dead and One Injured
Human Remains Found on St. Helena Island Spark Investigation
Student Charged with Gun Possession at Whale Branch High School
Three Charged in Murder of 14-Year-Old Boy in Beaufort County
Beaufort County Charges in 14-Year-Old’s Shooting Death
Chaos Erupts at Lancaster Walmart: Multiple Arrests After Shootout

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.

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