St. Helena Island, South Carolina, October 16, 2025
News Summary
A mass shooting during a high school alumni event at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island resulted in four fatalities and more than 20 injuries. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, is linked to ongoing feuds among attendees. Law enforcement is investigating, and witnesses are afraid to come forward. Community leaders express outrage and call for improved safety measures amidst a troubling rise in gun violence in the region.
St. Helena Island, South Carolina – A mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island left four people dead and more than 20 injured early Sunday morning, October 12, 2025. The tragic incident occurred just before 1 a.m. during a Battery Creek High School alumni event that was attended by approximately 500 to 700 people.
Authorities confirmed that at least 20 individuals were shot, with four fatalities reported. The deceased victims have been identified as Kashawn Glaze, 22, from Beaufort; Chiraad Smalls, 33, from Beaufort; A’shan’tek Milledge, 22, from Burton; and Amos Gary, 54, from St. Helena. Among the injured, four people were initially reported in critical condition, but two of them were later said to be in a “much better” position.
The shooting was reportedly instigated by an ongoing feud between two or possibly three individuals within the crowd. As gunfire erupted, innocent bystanders were hit during the exchange. The Beaufort County Sheriff described the scene as “chaotic,” “horrific,” and “senseless.” Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), are conducting investigations and processing physical evidence such as firearms, shell casings, and projectiles collected at the site.
The FBI Columbia field office has asked the public to assist by providing multimedia evidence, launching a digital media tips website for submissions. Sheriff P.J. Tanner highlighted ongoing concerns regarding gun violence in the area, noting that 24 arrests for possession of machine guns had taken place in Beaufort County over the past year and a half. Strikingly, all but eight of those arrested are currently out on bond, drawing attention to the low bond amounts granted.
The shooting is believed to have connections to gang activity, exacerbated by influences from social media platforms like Facebook. Tanner expressed that he could not guarantee public safety in Beaufort County, particularly during large gatherings, due to the potential for disputes to escalate quickly. Investigators are aware of potential suspects linked to the case; however, no arrests have been made yet as evidence collection continues.
Witnesses have been hesitant to come forward, likely due to fear of retaliation. As of now, no witness was willing to identify the shooters. The community, alongside the families of the victims, has expressed profound outrage and sorrow over the deadly incident, underscoring the urgent need for justice and improvements to safety measures in the region.
Investigation and Community Response
As the investigation unfolds, local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to gather more intelligence and evidence regarding the shooting. The reluctance of witnesses to cooperate is raising alarms among law enforcement, as it can hinder the progression of the case. Community leaders and residents call for enhanced safety protocols and accountability for those involved in gang-related activities.
Background on Gun Violence in Beaufort County
Over recent years, Beaufort County has witnessed a troubling surge in gun violence. Sheriff Tanner’s report regarding multiple arrests for machine guns reveals a deeper issue related to firearm possession and gang involvement. The correlation between social media and the escalation of violent confrontations has prompted discussions on how to address such influences effectively.
Conclusion
This tragic incident serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing challenges surrounding gun violence and safety in communities. As investigations continue, the impact of this shooting will resonate within the St. Helena Island community and the broader region for months to come.
FAQ Section
What happened at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island?
A mass shooting occurred at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, South Carolina, early Sunday, October 12, 2025, during a Battery Creek High School alumni event.
How many people were injured and killed in the shooting?
At least 20 people were shot, with four fatalities and 16 injuries reported.
Who are the deceased victims?
The deceased were identified as Kashawn Glaze, 22, from Beaufort; Chiraad Smalls, 33, from Beaufort; A’shan’tek Milledge, 22, from Burton; and Amos Gary, 54, from St. Helena.
What was the cause of the shooting?
The gunfire resulted from an ongoing feud between two or possibly three individuals in the crowd who exchanged gunfire, hitting bystanders.
Is there an ongoing investigation?
Yes, law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), are investigating and processing evidence, including firearms, shell casings, and projectiles collected from the scene.
Are suspects identified?
Investigators are aware of potential suspects, but no arrests have been made as they continue to collect evidence meticulously.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- USA Today
- WJCL
- NBC News
- Your Island News
- Wikipedia: St. Helena Island
- Google Search: St. Helena Island shooting
- Google Scholar: St. Helena Island mass shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: St. Helena Island
- Google News: St. Helena Island mass shooting
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.
