September 14, 2025

Elderly Woman Charged with Murder in Hilton Head Shooting Incident

Hilton Head, September 14, 2025

News Summary

An 82-year-old woman, Harriett Kay Recker, has been charged with murder after a shooting incident at the Preston Health Center in Hilton Head. The altercation involved her 81-year-old spouse, who succumbed to his injuries. Following this tragic incident, law enforcement has assured the community that there is no ongoing threat. The investigation is ongoing, with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office leading the efforts to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Hilton Head

An 82-year-old woman has been charged with murder following a shooting incident involving her spouse at the Preston Health Center, a skilled-care facility located at 87 Birdsong Way, Hilton Head. The incident occurred on a Friday morning, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.

According to reports, authorities received a call about shots fired at approximately 10:30 a.m. Upon arrival, deputies found Harriett Kay Recker alongside her 81-year-old spouse, who sustained an apparent gunshot wound. Despite efforts to save him, the victim was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Recker has been formally charged not only with murder but also with possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. She is currently being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center with no bond set, as she awaits her first court appearance. The incident has led to heightened law enforcement presence at the care facility during the ongoing investigation conducted by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities have reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community stemming from this incident. Initial reports indicated a strong police presence in the area and advised residents to avoid the vicinity during the investigation’s early phases. As part of the process, the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office will issue further information regarding the victim once the next of kin have been notified.

Investigation Details

Recker is described as a resident of Sun City and has now become the focal point of the investigation. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and investigators are actively working to gather information regarding the circumstances leading to this tragic event.

Community Response

Residents of the Hilton Head area have reacted with shock to the news, given the nature of the incident occurring in a care facility known for providing a supportive environment for elderly individuals. The Preston Health Center, equipped with 58 beds, aims to deliver quality care to its residents, making this event particularly distressing for the community.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Harriett Kay Recker’s charges of murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime carry serious legal ramifications. It is expected that her case will be monitored closely by both the public and the media as it progresses through the legal system.

Background on the Facility

The Preston Health Center is a skilled-care facility dedicated to offering rehabilitative and long-term care to elderly residents. Such facilities are typically viewed as safe havens for vulnerable populations, making incidents of violence within their walls alarming to families and community members.

Conclusion

The tragic incident has reignited conversations about safety in care facilities and the well-being of residents. As investigations continue and authorities work to gather the facts, the Hilton Head community remains focused on supporting one another during this difficult time.

FAQ

What happened at the Preston Health Center?

An 82-year-old woman was charged with murder after a shooting incident involving her 81-year-old spouse at the facility.

Where is the Preston Health Center located?

The Preston Health Center is situated at 87 Birdsong Way, Hilton Head.

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.

Is there any ongoing threat to the community?

Authorities have confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the community related to the incident.

What is the status of the investigation?

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an ongoing investigation into the shooting.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder on Hilton Head Island
82-Year-Old Woman Arrested for Murder at Assisted Living Facility
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Additional Resources

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.

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.

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