ST. HELENA ISLAND, S.C. — Authorities have confirmed the identities of four victims in a mass shooting that occurred over the weekend at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, South Carolina. The attack left at least 20 other patrons injured amidst a crowded event attended by local alumni.
The deceased have been identified as Kashawn Glaze, 22, Chiraad Smalls, 33, Amy Gary, 54, and A’shan’tek Milledge, 22. The bar, described as a community hub and purveyor of Gullah-inspired cuisine, was hosting an alumni gathering from Battery Creek High School when the violence erupted.
In response to the violent incident, members of the local community have placed flowers and candles outside the bar, as the Beaufort County coroner’s office continues to provide support to the affected families. Law enforcement is actively pursuing individuals of interest, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in the ongoing investigation.
The bar’s owner, Willie Turral, expressed his sorrow, stating that it is challenging to manage a local establishment during such trying times. “It's hard to have your name on the door and not feel the weight of what’s happening,” he commented in an interview with local media.
Investigators are reaching out, asking for any information regarding the incident to aid in their investigative efforts. The tragedy marks a significant loss for the St. Helena Island community, which has a rich history tied to the Gullah people, descendants of enslaved West Africans with deep cultural ties to the region.