Beaufort County, October 22, 2025
News Summary
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is investigating two shootings that occurred in Bluffton and St. Helena Island, raising safety concerns in the community. The first incident happened at the Vista View apartment complex, with no injuries but property damage reported. The second shooting targeted a home with occupants, resulting in a 19-year-old male sustaining non-life-threatening injuries. Residents are urged to assist in the investigation and report any information to local authorities as concerns over gun violence continue to rise in the area.
Bluffton, SC – The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating two separate shooting incidents that occurred late Monday night and early Tuesday morning, which have raised concerns among residents.
The first shooting incident took place just before 11 p.m. on October 20, 2023, at the Vista View apartment complex located on Haigler Boulevard in Bluffton. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. However, property damage consistent with gunfire was observed in the area.
A second shooting occurred shortly before 4 a.m. on October 21, 2023, near Shiney Road on St. Helena Island. This incident targeted a house that was occupied by four individuals at the time. In this shooting, a 19-year-old male victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital for treatment. The three other individuals inside the home during the St. Helena shooting were unharmed.
Both shooting incidents are under active investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. As of now, authorities have not announced any arrests related to either incident. According to Lieutenant Daniel Allen, it appears that there is no direct link between the two shootings, making their motives distinct.
Residents are encouraged to assist the investigation by reporting any information they may have. Community members with information about the Bluffton incident are urged to contact Sgt. Cushman at 843-255-3722, while those with information about the St. Helena Island shooting can reach out to Cpl. Petruzzi at 843-255-3267. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County website or via the P3 Tips mobile app.
These recent shootings highlight a growing trend of gun violence in Beaufort County. Earlier this month, a mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill tragically left four people dead, adding to the community’s worries over safety and crime.
Key Details of the Shootings
- First Shooting: Vista View apartment complex, Bluffton, SC.
- Date and Time: October 20, 2023, at approximately 11 p.m.
- Injuries: None reported, but property damage occurred.
- Second Shooting: Near Shiney Road, St. Helena Island, SC.
- Date and Time: October 21, 2023, at approximately 4 a.m.
- Injuries: One 19-year-old male victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
- Occupants: Three other individuals inside the home were unharmed.
Community Involvement
The Sheriff’s Office is relying on community engagement to close in on leads regarding these incidents. By actively participating, residents can aid law enforcement efforts in making their neighborhoods safer.
Background Context
The apparent rise in gun violence within the county has been a growing concern for local authorities and community members alike. The recent incidents further underscore a pressing need for actions and discussions addressing the root causes and potential solutions to prevent further violence.
Next Steps for Residents
Local residents are advised to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The community’s proactive steps can play a critical role in enhancing the safety and security of their environment.
FAQ
What incidents are currently being investigated by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office?
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is investigating two shooting incidents that occurred in the area over late Monday night and early Tuesday morning.
Where did the first shooting occur?
The first shooting happened just before 11 p.m. on October 20, 2023, at the Vista View apartment complex on Haigler Boulevard in Bluffton.
Were there any injuries in the Bluffton shooting?
No injuries were reported in the Bluffton shooting, although property damage consistent with gunfire was found.
What happened in the St. Helena Island shooting?
The second shooting occurred shortly before 4 a.m. on October 21, 2023, targeting a house with four people inside. A 19-year-old male victim from the St. Helena shooting sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
How many people were injured in these shootings?
One individual was injured in the St. Helena shooting. The Bluffton incident did not result in injuries.
Have any arrests been made in connection with these shootings?
Both shootings are under active investigation, and authorities have not announced any arrests related to either incident.
How can residents assist in the investigation?
Community members with information about the incidents are urged to contact Sgt. Cushman at 843-255-3722 for Bluffton or Cpl. Petruzzi at 843-255-3267 for St. Helena Island. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County website or via the P3 Tips mobile app.
What is the significance of these incidents in the broader context of gun violence in the area?
These shootings are the latest in a troubling trend of gun violence in Beaufort County, following a recent mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill which left four people dead earlier this month.
Chart: Key Features of Recent Shootings
| Feature | Bluffton Shooting | St. Helena Island Shooting |
|---|---|---|
| Date & Time | October 20, 2023, at 11 p.m. | October 21, 2023, at 4 a.m. |
| Location | Vista View apartment complex | Near Shiney Road |
| Injuries | No | One male victim (19 years old) |
| Property Damage | Yes | No |
| Active Investigation | Yes | Yes |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragedy Strikes St. Helena Island with Mass Shooting
Community in Mourning After Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar & Grill
Beaufort County Investigates Double Shooting in Bluffton and St. Helena
Investigations Underway After Two Shooting Incidents
Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island
Tragic Mass Shooting at Beaufort County Bar
Mass Shooting Claims Four Lives on St. Helena Island
Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill Claims Four Lives
Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill Claims Lives
Tragic Mass Shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill
Additional Resources
- WTOC: Two Separate Shooting Investigations Underway
- Island Packet: Shooting Investigation in Beaufort County
- ABC News 4: Beaufort County Deputies Investigate Separate Shootings
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
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.
