South Carolina Bar Shooting: 4 Dead, 20 Injured Outside Willie’s Bar During Alumni Weekend

St. Helena Island, SC – What began as a lively reunion turned sorrowful late Saturday night when gunfire erupted outside Willie’s Bar and Grill in Beaufort County, South Carolina. Four people lost their lives and at least 20 others were injured, according to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.

Tragedy Strikes During Alumni Celebration at Willie’s Bar and Grill

Owner Willie Turral described the chaotic moments inside the bar, which had been hosting Battery Creek High School’s alumni weekend. “I heard the shots, and it was scary from the inside — you could tell by the rapid succession it wasn’t a standard weapon,” Turral said, his voice heavy with emotion. “You saw people giving CPR, people crying, people helping. This community didn’t do this. A person did this.”

A Night of Joy Turns to Panic

Witnesses say the scene shifted from laughter and music to panic in seconds. The gunfire broke out just before 1:00 a.m. as hundreds of patrons scrambled for cover. Some ran toward nearby businesses and homes, desperate to escape the chaos.

Community member Jindia Blount said she visits Willie’s Bar and Grill often and described the spot as a place defined by friendship and ease. “I would have never expected anything like that here. The vibe is always laid back — it’s home,” Blount said.

Community Grieves and Seeks Answers

Turral, visibly shaken, said the pain runs deep for everyone touched by the tragedy. “I have people I would call family who lost their lives last night. This is home for me, so everybody feels it — it’s tough,” he said.

Investigators are working to identify the victims and continue to question persons of interest. Authorities have not confirmed any arrests as of Tuesday afternoon.

A Town United in Mourning

In the aftermath, residents have begun gathering outside the bar to create a vigil site honoring those who died. Candles, photos, and handwritten messages line the sidewalk — a growing tribute to those gone too soon.

Turral, holding back tears, spoke of the community’s strength. “Nothing can fix when someone’s kid doesn’t come home. But we’ll be here with each other. That’s all we can promise.”

Attorney Discusses Legal Options for Victims Shot at Bars and Restaurants

In the aftermath of recent shootings at bars and restaurants, families are left searching for answers and accountability. Attorney Laurence Banville sat down with experienced pool drowning lawyer James Moore, who has handled numerous premises liability cases, to discuss how property owners may be held responsible when inadequate security or negligence contributes to violent tragedies.

Laurence Banville, Esq.: When something like this happens — shots fired outside a business — what protections exist for the victims and their families under South Carolina law?

James Moore, Esq.: When a shooting occurs at or near a business, the key question is whether reasonable security measures were in place. Families may be able to pursue a civil claim against the property owner if the location lacked proper safety precautions or if prior incidents suggested a foreseeable risk.

Banville: So even if the shooter hasn’t been caught yet, families can still explore civil action?

Moore: Yes, that’s correct. A criminal case targets the person who pulled the trigger, but a civil case examines whether the business failed to protect its guests. Gathering evidence early — surveillance footage, witness accounts, security reports — can be critical in determining liability.

Supporting Families After Tragedy

Families affected by bar or restaurant shootings deserve answers and accountability. If you or someone you love was injured or lost their life in such an incident, our legal team is here to help. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation and learn how we can stand beside you throughout the legal process.

Source

https://www.wrdw.com/2025/10/13/bar-owner-left-picking-up-pieces-after-sc-mass-shooting/