Kashawn Glaze, Chiraad Smalls Obituary, Death – Authorities are continuing their investigation into a devastating incident that took place early Sunday morning at a local establishment on St. Helena Island, which resulted in the loss of four lives and left several others injured. The tragedy has deeply affected the Beaufort County community, prompting an outpouring of concern and cooperation as officials seek answers.
According to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened shortly before 1 a.m. at Willie’s Bar and Grill on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. The gathering was reportedly a social celebration connected to Battery Creek High School alumni. When deputies arrived, they discovered multiple individuals with serious injuries and immediately began rendering aid alongside emergency responders.
The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office later identified those who lost their lives as 22-year-old A’shan’tek Milledge of Burton, 54-year-old Amos Gary of St. Helena, 33-year-old Chiraad Smalls of Beaufort, and 22-year-old Kashawn Glaze of Beaufort. Officials confirmed that all four were pronounced deceased at the scene. Their families have been notified, and grief counselors are being made available in the community.
Authorities say more than a dozen others sustained injuries during the chaos that followed the outbreak of gunfire. Medical personnel transported the injured to nearby hospitals, and several remain under observation. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and following multiple leads in an effort to understand how the situation unfolded. So far, no arrests have been confirmed, though officials have said they are looking into persons of interest.
Willie Turral, the owner of the bar, described the terrifying moments when the gunfire erupted, saying that everything happened suddenly as patrons tried to seek safety. He expressed sorrow over the loss of life, including that of a security worker who was on duty that evening and was also a close family friend. “We spoke just the night before,” Turral shared, visibly emotional. “It’s something that really hits close to home.”
Officials from the Beaufort County School District clarified that the gathering was not sponsored or coordinated by Battery Creek High School or the district itself. They expressed condolences to the families affected and emphasized the importance of unity and support for the grieving community.
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office released a statement thanking community members who have already provided information and encouraging anyone with additional details to assist in the ongoing investigation. Residents can reach Investigator Master Sergeant Duncan at 843-255-3418 or via email at TDuncan@BCGov.net. Anonymous tips may also be shared through the P3 Tips App, the website tipsbft.com, or by calling 844-TIPS-BFT (844-847-7238).
Authorities continue to process evidence from the scene and are coordinating with state and federal partners to ensure a thorough investigation. Sheriff’s deputies have also increased patrols in the area to reassure residents and maintain public safety in the days following the incident.
As the community mourns, several local organizations and faith leaders have offered counseling services and organized vigils in honor of the victims. Many residents have spoken about the need for healing and solidarity during this difficult time.
Turral said his immediate focus is on the wellbeing of his staff and patrons, acknowledging that decisions about the bar’s future can wait until the investigation concludes. “Right now, we just need to come together as a community,” he said. “Everyone is hurting, and it’s important that we stand by one another.”
Authorities urge patience as the investigation continues and have promised to share verified updates as new information becomes available.
This is a developing story, and officials are asking for compassion and cooperation as the community seeks peace and answers in the wake of this heartbreaking event.
