A night meant for laughter and music turned into chaos on South Carolina’s St. Helena Island.
A mass shooting at a packed bar left four people dead and at least 20 others injured.
It happened in the early hours of Sunday at Willie’s Bar and Grill — a local favorite known for its Gullah-inspired food and lively atmosphere.
But as gunfire erupted, panic swept through the crowd.
Witnesses described the terrifying scene, with people running for cover into nearby shops.
“It sounded like a machine gun,” said one resident, while a bar cook recalled hearing “a lot of shots.”
Community In Mourning
Police say four people died at the scene and several others remain in critical condition.
No suspects have been arrested yet, and investigators haven’t said whether the attack was targeted or random.
Local leaders are reeling. “Completely heartbroken,” wrote Representative Nancy Mace on X, calling it a “horrific act of violence.”
Congressman James Clyburn said he was “devastated by the senseless tragedy.”
Shockingly, this isn’t the first time violence has struck this spot — a 2022 shooting at the same location injured two people.
For now, St. Helena Island mourns and wonders: how many more nights like this before the music can play safely again?
