Hilton Head, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Harriett Kay Recker, an 82-year-old woman, has been charged with murder following the shooting death of her husband, Dennis Recker, in an assisted living facility. The tragic incident took place in Hilton Head and has left the community in shock. Harriett is currently held at the Beaufort County Detention Center, awaiting her first court appearance. Authorities have assured residents that there is no ongoing threat as the investigation continues.
Hilton Head, South Carolina – Harriett Kay Recker, an 82-year-old woman, is facing serious legal charges following the fatal shooting of her husband at an assisted living facility. The incident, which has shocked the local community, occurred on September 12, 2025, at approximately 10:30 a.m. at the Preston Health Center located within the Cypress of Hilton Head.
Authorities were called to the scene after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, deputies discovered Harriett Recker’s 81-year-old husband, Dennis Recker, with a gunshot wound to the torso. Despite immediate lifesaving measures, Dennis Recker was pronounced dead at the scene at around 11:26 a.m.
Harriett Recker has been charged with murder and with possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Following her arrest, she is currently held at the Beaufort County Detention Center, and no bond has been set. At this time, the investigation into the shooting continues, with authorities indicating that there is no threat to the wider community. Harriett is awaiting her first court appearance.
The couple had reportedly “recently arrived” at the assisted living facility, which provides a range of care services, including short-term, long-term, and specialized memory care. The community manager stated that the tragic shooting has left residents in shock, as many perceived Harriett as a friendly and caring individual. Neighbors and acquaintances emphasized their astonishment, expressing disbelief that an act of violence could emerge from a couple who seemed content.
This incident raises concerns and questions regarding safety in assisted living environments, where vulnerable populations reside. The ongoing investigation will likely shed further light on the circumstances leading to this deadly encounter.
Background Context
Assisted living facilities are designed to provide help to older adults who may require assistance with daily activities while still promoting independence. In this case, Harriett and Dennis Recker had recently transitioned to the Cypress of Hilton Head from their home in Sun City, South Carolina. Such facilities typically offer various services tailored to the needs of their residents, including nursing care and support for memory-related issues.
The unfortunate event highlights the complex dynamics that can exist within relationships, especially as individuals age and may face mounting stresses related to health and living conditions. Insights from mental health professionals could be critical in understanding the broader implications of such incidents.
FAQ Section
What charges has Harriett Kay Recker faced?
Harriett Kay Recker has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
Where did the shooting incident take place?
The shooting incident took place at the Preston Health Center, located within the Cypress of Hilton Head, an assisted living facility.
What happened to Dennis Recker?
Dennis Recker suffered a gunshot wound and died at the scene despite lifesaving efforts by authorities.
Is there an ongoing investigation into the shooting?
Yes, an investigation into the shooting is currently ongoing, and authorities have assured the community that there is no further threat.
Key Features of Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Involved Parties | Harriett Kay Recker (82), Dennis Recker (81) |
| Location | Preston Health Center, Cypress of Hilton Head |
| Date and Time | September 12, 2025, at approximately 10:30 a.m. |
| Charges Filed | Murder, Possession of a weapon during a violent crime |
| Current Status | Held at Beaufort County Detention Center, no bond set |
| Outcome for Victim | Died at the scene |
| Investigation | Ongoing, no threat to community |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder in Hilton Head Shooting
82-Year-Old Woman Arrested for Murder in Beaufort County
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder of Her Husband
Elderly Woman Charged With Murder in South Carolina Shooting
Fatal Shooting in Hilton Head Leads to Arrest of Elderly Woman
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder After Fatal Shooting
Elderly Woman Charged with Murder in Hilton Head Shooting Incident
Fifth Suspect Charged in Deadly Shooting in Beaufort
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder in Shooting Incident
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder on Hilton Head Island
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: 5th suspect in 2024 Burton murder case transferred to Beaufort County Jail
- Island Packet: Local Crime News
- WTOC: 82-year-old woman in custody after shooting and killing her husband
- WJCL: Tyre Joe Atkins Burton murder case updates
- WITN: Man killed in Chocowinity domestic-related shooting
- Wikipedia: Assisted living
- Google Search: Hilton Head shooting 2025
- Google Scholar: Senior living violence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Elder abuse
- Google News: Assisted living facility safety
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.
