Shooting in South Carolina bar kills four, injures many

Hundreds of people were crowded into Willie’s Bar and Grill before police responded to the shooting reports just before 1 a.m. Sunday, according to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. In addition to those killed, at least 20 people were injured. Four victims were pronounced dead at the scene, and four others were rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Over a dozen victims sought medical attention from various hospitals in the area. The attack took place on St. Helena Island, which is connected to the mainland by highway.

What was the motive? Police asked the public for patience while they continued investigating the attack. The Sheriff’s Office was investigating several persons of interest.

How have public officials responded? Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., said she was heartbroken over the shooting in a Sunday morning statement. She asked the public to pray for the victims and immediately share any information on the attack with the police. Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., also released a Sunday morning statement mourning the victims in the attack. South Carolinians will be holding those injured and killed close in their hearts throughout the coming days, he said.

On St.Helena Island, and in the greater area, there is a prominent Gullah-Geechee community where thousands of residents can trace their ancestry back to enslaved West Africans known for working rice plantations before the Civil War. 

Dig deeper: Read my report last year on seven people dying during a Gullah-Geechee heritage celebration.