St. Helena Island, SC, October 15, 2025
News Summary
A mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill in St. Helena Island has resulted in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to twenty others. The incident occurred during an alumni event, causing chaos as attendees tried to flee. Community leaders are expressing safety concerns and demanding increased security measures. The investigation is ongoing as local authorities search for suspects and motives behind this tragic event.
St. Helena Island, SC – A mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill early Sunday morning, October 12, 2025, has left four people dead and another twenty injured, sparking outrage and concern within the community. The shooting occurred around 1 a.m. when attendees of an alumni event were present at the crowded bar.
The victims who lost their lives include 22-year-olds Kashawn Glaze and A’Shan’tek Milledge, 33-year-old Chiraad Smalls, and 54-year-old Amos Ramon Gary, all of whom resided in Beaufort County. In addition to the fatalities, twenty individuals sustained injuries, with four reported to be in critical condition as they receive treatment.
According to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, an investigation is ongoing into the incident, with authorities exploring leads and individuals of interest. As of now, no arrests have been made. The chaos erupted when rapid gunfire rang out, which witnesses likened to the sound of a machine gun. Amid the panic, many individuals were injured while attempting to flee the scene.
One victim, Tenisha James, was shot in the chin; the bullet exited from the side of her neck. Following surgery, she is reported to be recovering in the hospital. During the shooting, Amos Gary was reportedly working as security at the bar, and he has been hailed as a hero for his attempts to protect others in the midst of the attack.
In the aftermath, a memorial has been set up outside Willie’s Bar and Grill, where community members have gathered to pay their respects to the victims. Local councilman York Glover has raised concerns about safety in the area and called for increased patrols in the wake of this tragic event. Resident Maria Pinckney spoke about her daughter’s injuries, emphasizing that St. Helena Island is typically a peaceful place, making the violence particularly shocking for the community.
This incident has reignited discussions about the need for educational programs targeting youth to prevent future violence. Community members are reflecting on the impact of the shooting, especially given the close-knit nature of the St. Helena Island community, which has not historically experienced such violent events.
Despite the measures taken at the bar, including having several security guards on duty and established safety protocols, the shooting has raised questions about the adequacy of safety measures in place. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has faced criticism for its handling of the incident, particularly concerning a perceived lack of communication and updates regarding the ongoing investigation.
As mourning continues in the wake of this horrific event, the community seeks answers and greater assurances of safety for its residents moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill occur?
The mass shooting occurred early Sunday morning, October 12, 2025.
How many people were killed in the shooting?
Four people were killed: 22-year-olds Kashawn Glaze and A’Shan’tek Milledge, 33-year-old Chiraad Smalls, and 54-year-old Amos Ramon Gary.
How many people were injured during the incident?
The incident left 20 others injured, with four victims reported to be in critical condition.
What was happening at the bar when the shooting occurred?
The bar was crowded with attendees from an alumni event, with hundreds present when the shooting started.
Is there an ongoing investigation into the shooting?
Yes, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident and looking into persons of interest but has not yet made any arrests.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date | October 12, 2025 |
| Location | Willie’s Bar and Grill, St. Helena Island, SC |
| Casualties | 4 dead, 20 injured (4 critical condition) |
| Crowd Size | Hundreds in attendance from an alumni event |
| Investigating Agency | Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill
Tragic Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill
Tragic Mass Shooting in South Carolina Claims Four Lives
Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill Leaves Four Dead
Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill Leaves Four Dead
Tragic Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill
Beaufort County Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill
Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill Shocks St. Helena Island
Tragic Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill
Tragic Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill
Additional Resources
- ABC News: Mass Shooting in St. Helena Island
- WTOC: Victims of St. Helena Island Mass Shooting Identified
- Post and Courier: Willie’s Bar Shooting Victims
- BBC News: South Carolina Bar Shooting
- The Guardian: South Carolina Bar Shooting
- Wikipedia: Mass Shootings in the United States
- Google Search: St Helena Island Shooting
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.
