Three Victims Identified in St. Helena Island Mass Shooting; Community Shaken by Tragedy

Three Victims Identified in St. Helena Island Mass Shooting; Community Shaken by Tragedy

October 12, 2025 | St. Helena Island, South Carolina — A tight-knit South Carolina community is reeling after a tragic mass shooting at a popular local gathering spot left four people dead and at least 20 others injured in the early hours of Saturday morning, October 12.

Authorities have now identified three of the four victims fatally shot as:

• Amos Gary

• Ashantek Danielle

• Roddy (Last name pending release)

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the gunfire broke out shortly before 1:00 a.m. at Willie’s Bar & Grill, located at 7 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive on St. Helena Island. The incident has quickly become one of the deadliest mass shootings in Beaufort County’s recent history.

A Night of Celebration Turns Deadly

According to investigators, the bar was hosting a Battery Creek High School alumni celebration, which had drawn hundreds of attendees from across the region. Witnesses described a night that began with laughter, music, and camaraderie — before chaos suddenly erupted.

“It was peaceful — just people reconnecting, dancing, and enjoying themselves,” said one attendee. “Then shots rang out, and everyone scattered.”

Eyewitnesses recalled a scene of panic and confusion as gunfire broke out inside and near the premises. Many partygoers fled into nearby businesses and properties, seeking safety and trying to help the wounded.

When deputies and emergency responders arrived, they were met with a chaotic scene. Victims lay wounded across the property, while others had already begun making their way to local hospitals on their own.

Emergency medical crews from Beaufort County EMS, along with fire departments from surrounding towns, rushed to the scene. Despite their swift action, four individuals were pronounced dead, including one of the venue’s security guards.

At least four more victims remain in critical condition, and several others were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigation Ongoing; Persons of Interest Identified

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, which is leading the investigation, confirmed that persons of interest have been identified, although no arrests had been officially announced as of Sunday evening.

Investigators are currently combing through surveillance footage, collecting forensic evidence, and conducting interviews with witnesses and survivors. The area around Willie’s Bar remained cordoned off well into Saturday afternoon.

“This is a tragic and deeply painful event for our community,” said a statement from the Sheriff’s Office. “We ask for patience as we work to uncover what led to this senseless act of violence. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the victims and their families.”

The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office is expected to release additional names and information once all next-of-kin notifications have been completed.

Community Grieving; Local Business Speaks Out

The bar’s owner, known in the community as Turral, expressed his heartbreak over the events and emphasized the need for unity in the days ahead.

“It’s something horrible, something that shakes the whole community,” Turral told reporters. “My focus right now is on my staff, the families, and the victims. We just have to come together and support each other.”

He declined to comment on the future of the bar, stating that the community must first focus on healing and recovery.

Calls for Public Assistance and Vigilance

Authorities are urging anyone who was present at the event or has relevant information — including cellphone footage, eyewitness accounts, or knowledge of potential suspects — to come forward.

Members of the public can contact Investigator Master Sergeant Duncan at 843-255-3418.

For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County:

• P3 Tips app

• Online: www.tipsbft.com

• Phone: 844-TIPS-BFT (844-847-7238)

A Community in Mourning

As tributes poured in on social media, friends and family of the victims shared heartfelt messages and memories of those lost. Many described Amos Gary, Ashantek Danielle, and Roddy as kind, joyful, and deeply loved members of the community.

Plans are underway for a community candlelight vigil, with details expected to be released by local leaders in the coming days. Residents across Beaufort County have begun organizing donations, memorial services, and trauma support resources for those affected.

“This kind of violence is unthinkable,” said one local pastor. “But we will not let it define us. We will lift up the names of those we lost and hold our community together through this pain.”

Developing Story

As of Sunday evening, the motive for the shooting remains unclear. Law enforcement officials continue to work around the clock to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

The St. Helena Island mass shooting marks a grim chapter in the Lowcountry’s history — one marked by tragedy, but also by the resilience of a community determined to rise together.