Bluffton, September 3, 2025
News Summary
Bluffton is grappling with a series of disturbing incidents, including nonconsensual touching, a shooting, and a bomb threat. Community safety concerns have risen as law enforcement actively investigates these events. The incidents have prompted local police to remind residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. With ongoing investigations into each case, authorities are working closely with the community to ensure public safety.
Bluffton Investigates Multiple Disturbing Incidents
Bluffton authorities are investigating a string of alarming incidents including nonconsensual touching, a shooting, and a bomb threat. These events have raised concerns in the community over safety and security.
Nonconsensual Touching Incident
On August 25, a woman reported being nonconsensually touched by a man outside the Food Lion located at 1008 Fording Island Road. This occurred around 9:30 a.m. as the woman exited the store and approached her car parked a considerable distance from the entrance.
An unidentified man intervened as she was about to close her car door, positioning himself between her and the vehicle. He proceeded to touch her lower calf and attempted to slide his hand up her thigh while trying to push up her dress. After the woman firmly pushed his hands away, the man claimed he was looking for money and subsequently distanced himself from the vehicle.
After the incident, the woman drove to a tire shop across the street, where she called the police. Officers later obtained a description of the assailant, who had made comments about her tattoos during the encounter. Surveillance footage from Food Lion failed to capture the incident. Authorities plan to present a photo lineup to the victim that includes at least one person of interest linked to a nearby Enmarket convenience store. Currently, investigators await results from a DNA swab taken from the woman’s leg.
Shooting Incident
In a separate incident, a shooting occurred on Thursday night, resulting in one individual being airlifted to the hospital with a gunshot wound to the head. The shooting took place around 7:15 p.m. in a residence located within the Heritage at New Riverside community in west Bluffton.
According to the Bluffton Police Department, there have been no arrests made in connection with this incident, and details regarding the victim’s current condition remain undisclosed. However, the police have reassured the community that they are not under any ongoing threat related to this shooting.
Bomb Threat Investigation
On Tuesday, law enforcement responded to a bomb threat reported just after 3 p.m. at the CVS Pharmacy located inside a Target store. As a precaution, authorities evacuated Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and the nearby CVS while closing the area to the public.
Following an extensive investigation, no suspicious packages or explosive devices were discovered. The area was deemed safe and reopened by 7:15 p.m. However, the investigation into the bomb threat remains active, with local agencies, including the Bluffton Township Fire District and the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit, involved.
Investigators are urging anyone with information regarding the bomb threat or any suspicious activity to report their concerns through the non-emergency dispatch line or anonymously via Crime Stoppers.
Vehicle Break-Ins and Auto Thefts
Additionally, the Bluffton Police Department is looking into a series of vehicle break-ins and auto thefts that have occurred over recent weeks in the western part of Bluffton. A juvenile male suspect was detained on May 2 in connection with these incidents, although specific identifying information has not been released due to the suspect’s age.
Multiple search warrants related to the vehicle break-ins have been executed as the investigation remains open, with the potential for additional charges and new suspects. Officers are advising residents to lock their vehicle doors and remove any valuables from within their cars to mitigate the risk of theft.
Conclusion
As Bluffton continues to deal with these various incidents, local law enforcement is actively investigating each case and encourages community vigilance. Residents are reminded to report any suspicious behavior to help maintain safety across the area.
FAQs
What incidents are currently under investigation in Bluffton?
Authorities are investigating nonconsensual touching, a shooting, and a bomb threat.
When did the nonconsensual touching incident occur?
The incident occurred on August 25 at approximately 9:30 a.m.
Where did the shooting incident take place?
The shooting happened at a residence in the Heritage at New Riverside community around 7:15 p.m.
Was anyone apprehended in relation to the shooting?
No arrests have been made concerning the shooting incident as of now.
What precautions were taken during the bomb threat investigation?
Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and nearby CVS were evacuated, and the area was closed to the public while authorities conducted their investigation.
What should residents do regarding vehicle safety?
Residents are advised to lock their vehicle doors and remove all valuables from inside to prevent theft.
Key Features Overview
| Incident Type | Date | Location | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nonconsensual Touching | August 25 | Food Lion, 1008 Fording Island Road | Under Investigation |
| Shooting | Thursday Night | Heritage at New Riverside | Under Investigation |
| Bomb Threat | Tuesday | CVS inside Target | Area Reopened |
| Vehicle Break-Ins | Recent Weeks | West Bluffton | Under Investigation |
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: Possible Bomb Threat Investigation in Bluffton
- Bluffton Today: Police Investigating Car Break-Ins
- WJCL: Bluffton U.S. 278 Traffic Gridlock Crash
- Post and Courier: Police Chief Discipline Investigation
- Wikipedia: Crime in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
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