Four people were killed and 20 wounded in a shooting at a packed bar on one of South Carolina’s inland Sea Islands early Sunday morning.
During an alumni gathering for Battery Creek High School, gunfire broke out at Willie’s Bar and Grill, a popular venue celebrated for its Gullah-inspired dishes, as reported by The Associated Press. Hundreds were in attendance at this Beaufort County event.
Police have released very little information about the shooting except to say they were looking at “persons of interest.”
The Beaufort County coroner’s office identified the dead as Kashawn Glaze, 22; Chiraad Smalls, 33; Amos Gary, 54; and A’shan’tek Milledge, 22.
As per the Island Packet, Gary, who was providing security for the event, was amidst the chaos when four of the 20 individuals who suffered injuries were rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
Willie Turral, the bar’s owner, said he’s stunned by what happened.
“The sound of gunshots was terrifying, especially being inside and hearing the rapid bursts. You could immediately sense it wasn’t just any ordinary weapon,” recounted Turral. “All around, there were people administering CPR, helping the injured, and expressing their distress. It was a scene of genuine concern and emotion.”
Speaking to WCSC, he expressed, “It’s overwhelming to see your name associated with such an event. It makes you wonder if there was more you could have possibly done. I’m committed to the process of healing and improvement.”
The sheriff’s office asked anyone with information to call Investigator Master Sgt. Duncan at 843-255-3418.
