ST. HELENA ISLAND, SC — A devastating act of violence has shaken the peaceful community of St. Helena Island to its core after a deadly shooting early Sunday morning at Willie’s Bar and Grill claimed the lives of three beloved individuals.
Authorities have confirmed that Amos Gary, Ashantek Danielle, and Roddy “NKayKay”, known to many by his social media handle #llroddynkaykay, were fatally shot during what was meant to be a typical late-night gathering at the popular local hangout. The shooting occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, shortly after 1 a.m., prompting a large-scale response from Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and emergency personnel.
TRAGEDY STRIKES A TIGHT-KNIT COMMUNITY
Willie’s Bar and Grill, a small, locally-owned establishment on Sea Island Parkway, is a well-known gathering place for residents looking to unwind, enjoy music, and spend time with friends. That sense of familiarity and safety was shattered in an instant when gunfire broke out during what witnesses described as a routine and friendly night at the bar.
Multiple 911 calls flooded dispatchers shortly after 1 a.m., reporting shots fired inside and outside the establishment. Deputies arrived within minutes to find a chaotic and heartbreaking scene.
“It was just complete panic,” said one witness who asked to remain anonymous. “People were running, yelling. Some were trying to help. Others were just in shock. No one expected something like this to happen here.”
THE VICTIMS: LOVED, CHERISHED, AND NOW MOURNED
As the names of the victims were released, tributes and memories began flooding social media, capturing just how deeply each life lost had impacted the community.
Amos Gary, 38
Described by friends as a “gentle giant,” Amos was a lifelong resident of St. Helena Island and a father of two. He worked in landscaping and was known for his work ethic, sense of humor, and big heart. His neighbors remember him as someone who would help without being asked — cutting grass for the elderly, fixing bikes for kids, and always offering a smile.
“He was the kind of guy who gave more than he ever asked for,” said family friend Marvin Givens. “He didn’t deserve this. None of them did.”
Ashantek Danielle, 27
A vibrant and creative soul, Ashantek was known for her passion for hair styling and fashion. She had recently opened her own small beauty business and was thriving both professionally and personally. Friends say she lit up every room she walked into.
“She had dreams and drive,” said her best friend, Kia Robinson. “She was just getting started. Her smile could lift anyone’s mood. This is just beyond tragic.”
Roddy “NKayKay” (#llroddynkaykay), 24
A rising local artist and rapper, Roddy was a fixture in the local music scene and known for his uplifting lyrics, candid social media presence, and deep love for his hometown. He used his music to advocate against violence and encourage young people to “do better.”
“He was a voice for the youth,” said mentor Tony Fields, who worked with Roddy at a local community center. “He had so much potential, and he was using his platform for good. Now he’s another name added to the violence he spoke out against.”
POLICE INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY
As of Monday morning, Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has not yet announced any arrests in connection with the shooting. Investigators have confirmed that multiple shooters may have been involved, and the incident is being treated as a targeted attack, though no official motive has been released.
“We are pursuing several leads and speaking with multiple witnesses,” said Sheriff P.J. Tanner during a press conference. “We ask anyone with video, photos, or firsthand information to please come forward. The community’s help is essential in bringing justice to the families of these victims.”
Crime scene investigators spent hours combing through the scene on Sunday, collecting shell casings and surveillance footage from surrounding businesses. The bar remains closed as the investigation continues.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crimestoppers of the Lowcountry at 1-888-CRIME-SC or through their official website.
COMMUNITY IN MOURNING, DEMANDING CHANGE
The tragedy has left St. Helena Island grieving — not just for the lives lost, but for the sense of peace that now feels so fragile.
Local churches opened their doors for prayer services on Sunday evening, with pastors calling for unity and collective healing. A candlelight vigil for Amos, Ashantek, and Roddy is scheduled for Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the St. Helena Community Park.
“We are heartbroken, but we are also angry,” said Reverend Diane James of First Tabernacle Church. “Too many young lives have been stolen. We need to come together as a community and say — enough is enough.”
REMEMBERING THEIR LEGACY
Though their lives were cut short, the legacies of Amos Gary, Ashantek Danielle, and Roddy “NKayKay” will live on — in the children they inspired, the art they created, the love they gave, and the spaces they once filled with laughter and joy.
“We can’t change what happened,” said Roddy’s older brother, Michael, “but we can make sure their names are never forgotten. We can live louder, love harder, and fight to make this world safer — the way they would’ve wanted.”
As St. Helena Island begins the difficult process of healing, one truth remains: the community will not forget the lives that were lost — and it will not rest until justice is served.
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