Authorities in South Carolina are investigating a deadly mass shooting that left four people dead and at least 20 others injured early Sunday morning at a crowded bar and grill in Beaufort County. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office has identified the victims as 22-year-old Kashawn Glaze and 33-year-old Sherrod Smalls, both of Beaufort; 22-year-old A’shan’tek Milledge of Burton; and 54-year-old Amos Gary of St. Helena.
According to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched around 1 a.m. to Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island after receiving reports of multiple shots fired. When law enforcement arrived, they found a chaotic and tragic scene. Hundreds of patrons were inside and around the establishment when gunfire erupted, sending people running for cover. Several individuals had sustained gunshot wounds, and four were pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency Medical Services responded immediately, transporting multiple victims to nearby hospitals while others made their own way seeking medical care. Authorities confirmed that at least 20 individuals were injured in the shooting, four of whom were listed in critical condition. The extent of injuries among the remaining victims has not yet been disclosed, and hospitals continue to treat those affected.
Deputies say the investigation remains in its early stages as they work to determine what led to the violence. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and collecting physical evidence from the scene. The sheriff’s office has identified several persons of interest and is pursuing leads to understand whether the shooting stemmed from an altercation or was a targeted attack.
Community members described the shooting as one of the most devastating incidents to occur in Beaufort County in recent years. Local leaders and residents have expressed grief and outrage, calling for peace and urging anyone with information to assist investigators. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that public cooperation is vital to bringing those responsible to justice and ensuring community safety.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact Investigator Master Sergeant Duncan at 843-255-3418. Anonymous tips can also be provided through the Beaufort County Crime Stoppers line. As investigators continue their work, officials say updates will be released as more details become available.