St. Helena Island Mass Shooting Claims Four Lives, Investigators Seek Witnesses

Thu Oct 16 2025 06:37:30 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, South Carolina, left four dead and 16 injured. Authorities are urging witnesses to come forward as investigations continue.

A tragic mass shooting occurred over the weekend at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to 16 others. Sheriff P.J. Tanner reported that the shooting stemmed from a dispute among a few attendees at a large party. Despite the presence of around 700 people at the event, police have struggled to find witnesses willing to identify the shooters. Authorities are working with forensic evidence to build a case as they continue to encourage anonymous tips.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A sheriff announced that deputies are continuing a meticulous investigation into a tragic mass shooting that took place last weekend, claiming the lives of four people and injuring 16 others at a bar on St. Helena Island, South Carolina. Despite the large turnout of partygoers at Willie’s Bar and Grill, officials have found it challenging to gain cooperation from witnesses.

“We had 700 people at this party. And we have yet to get a witness that can tell us who the shooters are. It’s ridiculous,” stated Sheriff P.J. Tanner, emphasizing the lack of leads in the case.

The investigation suggests the shooting originated from a personal dispute among known individuals. Authorities are actively testing DNA, analyzing weaponry, and reviewing video footage in hopes of unraveling the chaotic event that occurred just before closing time.

The beleaguered sheriff drew attention to the horrific nature of the incident, sharing that many shots were fired indiscriminately in a densely packed crowd. As a result, multiple injuries and fatalities ensued.

At a press briefing, Tanner welcomed questions and sought to reassure the community that progress is being made, although he admits the investigative process will take time.

Despite early reports indicating a higher number of wounded, Tanner confirmed that the official count stands at 16. Killed in the shooting were Kashawn Glaze, 22; Chiraad Smalls, 33; Amos Gary, 54; and A’shan’tek Milledge, 22.

Willie's Bar, known for its Gullah-inspired cuisine, serves as a significant community hub for locals, particularly for the Gullah people, descendants of enslaved Africans. As the investigation persists, the sheriff's office continues to welcome any anonymous information that could assist in solving this tragedy.