South Carolina Mass Shooting: 4 Killed, 20 Injured In Indiscriminate Firing At Willie's Bar And Grill

South Carolina: A mass shooting occurred at Willie's Bar and Grill on South Carolina's St Helena Island in the early hours of Sunday, resulting in the deaths of four people. According to the police, at least 20 others also sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. As per reports, the shooting took place around 1 am, when the bar was crowded with patrons. The shooting broke out when shots were fired in bursts outside the bar, which was hosting a high school alumni event.

The bar, a beloved community institution, was packed with people enjoying themselves when the shots were heard. Patrons rushed to nearby businesses seeking shelter from the gunfire, while law enforcement arrived to find multiple victims with gunshot wounds.

The Gullah community, known for its unique cultural traditions and strong sense of identity in South Carolina, was left in fear and grief. St Helena Island is home to an estimated 5000 or more Gullah people who trace their ancestry back to enslaved West Africans. The community's cultural importance extends beyond the island, with smaller enclaves of Gullah people living along the Southeast coast from North Carolina to Florida.

The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office received multiple reports of gunfire at Willie's Bar and Grill, prompting deputies to rush to the scene. After arriving at the site, the police found several people suffering from gunshot wounds. The victims were immediately rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, with four people pronounced dead at the scene. The injured were taken to various hospitals, with four reported to be in critical condition.

In a statement, the sheriff's office expressed its condolences to the victims and their families, asking for patience as the investigation proceeds. "This is a tragic and difficult incident for everyone….," the statement read. 

Among the injured, four were in critical condition at hospitals Sunday afternoon. The victims' identities were not released. US Representative Nancy Mace expressed her sorrow on social media, stating, "COMPLETELY HEARTBROKEN to learn about the devastating shooting."

The bar, known for its authentic Gullah-inspired cuisine, describes itself as not just a restaurant but a community pillar committed to giving back, especially to our youth. 

The law enforcement agencies have launched an investigation into the shooting. The police have secured the scene and are reviewing surveillance footage to identify the accused. The police have also urged anyone with information to come forward and assist with the investigation.

Meanwhile, the shooting has left the locals in fear and chaos, with many expressing sadness and outrage. Willie's Bar and Grill, which describes itself as ‘a hub of warmth and friendship in the heart of our beloved community’, is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. 

On the other hand, the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office has assured the public that they are making efforts to trace and nab the culprits. "Our thoughts are with all the victims and their loved ones…..We ask for your patience as we continue to investigate this incident," the department said in the statement.

Further details regarding the mass shooting are awaited.