Bluffton, South Carolina

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating two shootings that took place overnight on October 20-21, 2025, in the Bluffton and St. Helena Island areas. The first incident occurred around 11 p.m. on Monday at the Vista View apartment complex on Haigler Boulevard, where deputies responded to multiple calls regarding shots fired. Upon arrival, they discovered property damage consistent with gunfire but reported no injuries from this incident.

The second shooting transpired around 4 a.m. on Tuesday at a home on Shiney Road on St. Helena Island. Deputies were alerted to gunfire and were informed that a 19-year-old male gunshot victim had already been transported to the hospital. The victim sustained a non-life-threatening wound and is currently in stable condition. While three other individuals were present inside the home during the incident, they did not suffer any injuries.

According to Lt. Daniel Allen of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, the two shootings do not appear to be linked, and both investigations are ongoing. No arrests have been made in relation to either shooting at this time.

The Vue View shooting resulted in significant property damage, with several vehicles and buildings showing signs of gunfire. The St. Helena shooting occurred approximately two miles from a previous mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill, which tragically claimed the lives of four individuals. Residents of the community have expressed heightened concerns over violence and its far-reaching impact on families and the community.

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking information from the public regarding both incidents. Individuals with information about the Bluffton shooting are encouraged to contact Sgt. Cushman at 843-255-3722. For tips related to the St. Helena shooting, Cpl. Petruzzi can be reached at 843-255-3267. Moreover, anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County via their website or by calling 844-TIPS-BFT (844-847-7238).

The Sheriff’s Office is also pursuing leads on the earlier mass shooting that occurred on St. Helena Island. The ongoing issues of gun violence in the area have taken an emotional toll on residents, with many voicing their distress and concerns for the safety of their community.

What were the details of the first shooting in Bluffton?

The first shooting happened around 11 p.m. on Monday at the Vista View apartment complex on Haigler Boulevard in Bluffton. Upon arrival, deputies found property damage consistent with gunfire but no injuries were reported in this incident.

What happened in the second shooting on St. Helena Island?

The second shooting occurred around 4 a.m. on Tuesday on St. Helena Island at a home on Shiney Road. Deputies learned that a 19-year-old male gunshot victim was already on the way to the hospital. The victim suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound and is in stable condition.

Are the two shootings related?

The two shootings do not appear to be linked, according to Lt. Daniel Allen of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.

How can the public assist in these investigations?

Both investigations are seeking information from the public; anyone with information about the Bluffton shooting is asked to contact Sgt. Cushman at 843-255-3722. For information related to the St. Helena shooting, contact Cpl. Petruzzi at 843-255-3267. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County through their website or by calling 844-TIPS-BFT (844-847-7238).

What is the emotional impact on the community?

Community residents expressed concern over the violence and the impact on families and the community as a whole. Several individuals spoke about the emotional toll of the ongoing gun violence in the area.