Tragic Mass Shooting on St. Helena Island, SC Leaves Four Dead and Many Injured

Tragic Mass Shooting on St. Helena Island, SC Leaves Four Dead and Many Injured

St. Helena Island, South Carolina — October 12, 2025 — The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office has identified the four victims who tragically lost their lives in a mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill during the early hours of Sunday morning. The victims were identified as 22-year-old Kashawn Glaze, 33-year-old Chiraad Smalls, 22-year-old A’shan’tek Milledge, and 54-year-old Amos Gary.

The incident, which unfolded at approximately 1 a.m., sent shockwaves through the close-knit community of St. Helena Island and Beaufort County as hundreds of people gathered at the popular establishment. What should have been an evening of celebration and community quickly turned into a night of horror and devastation.

Scene of Chaos and Tragedy

Deputies from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) were dispatched to Willie’s Bar and Grill after reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they encountered a chaotic scene with multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. The crowd of hundreds inside the bar and grill included both patrons and staff, many of whom were caught in the crossfire.

EMS teams acted swiftly, transporting several injured individuals to nearby hospitals. Additionally, some victims sought medical help independently at various medical facilities in the area. In total, at least 20 people were injured during the shooting. Four victims were rushed to hospitals in critical condition, and sadly, four were pronounced dead at the scene, including those later identified by the coroner’s office.

The current condition of the injured remains unknown, and authorities continue to monitor their status as they recover.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation into the shooting is active and ongoing. Deputies have reportedly identified persons of interest connected to the case but have not released further details as the investigation unfolds. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist with the inquiry.

Sheriff’s officials have expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and the injured, highlighting the profound impact this violent event has had on the community.

“This is a heartbreaking tragedy that has left our community in mourning,” said a spokesperson from the BCSO. “We are committed to finding those responsible and ensuring justice for the victims and their families.”

Remembering the Victims

The lives lost — Kashawn Glaze, Chiraad Smalls, A’shan’tek Milledge, and Amos Gary — were abruptly and senselessly taken, leaving behind grieving families, friends, and a community struggling to understand how such violence could erupt in their peaceful town.

Each victim was a valued member of their community with hopes, dreams, and loved ones who now face an unimaginable loss. Memorial services and tributes are being organized to honor their memories and provide support to their families.

A Community United in Grief and Support

In the aftermath of this tragedy, local leaders, community organizations, and residents have come together to support those affected. Counseling services and victim assistance programs are being made available to help survivors and families cope with the trauma and grief caused by this event.

Residents of St. Helena Island and Beaufort County are also calling for renewed conversations around community safety, violence prevention, and mental health resources to address the root causes of such devastating incidents.

How to Help

Community members wishing to support the victims and their families are encouraged to follow updates from local authorities and community groups organizing relief efforts. Donations and assistance can provide crucial support as those impacted navigate the road to recovery.

The tragic events of October 12, 2025, will long be remembered by the people of St. Helena Island and beyond. The hope remains that justice will be served and that healing can begin for all those affected by this senseless act of violence.