A mass shooting at a busy bar on South Carolina’s scenic St. Helena Island left four people dead and at least 20 others injured early Sunday morning, authorities reported.

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the incident took place around 1 a.m. at Willie’s Bar and Grill, located at 7 Dr. Martin Luther Drive, about an hour north of Savannah, Georgia.

The violence broke out at Willie’s Bar and Grill, where a large crowd had gathered. When deputies from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office arrived, they found several people suffering from gunshot wounds. Four victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Some victims were taken to nearby hospitals by ambulance, while others arrived on their own seeking medical attention  Officials said that that four of those injured remain in critical condition. Authorities have not yet released the names of any of the victims as the investigation continues.

According to a statement posted by the sheriff’s office on X, “Multiple victims and witnesses ran to the nearby businesses and properties seeking shelter from the gun shots. Several victims were transported by Beaufort County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to the hospital. More victims continued to show up at area hospitals seeking medical attention from injuries sustained at the scene … The circumstances of this incident are still under investigation. At this time, we know that at least 20 people were injured. 4 were transported to area hospitals in critical conditions and 4 victims were pronounced deceased at the scene. Names of victims will not be released at this time. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office may release additional information regarding the deceased victims pending notification of their next of kin. This is a tragic and difficult incident for everyone. We ask for your patience as we continue to investigate this incident. Our thoughts are with all of the victims and their loved ones.”

U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, who represents Beaufort County, expressed her grief on social media: “COMPLETELY HEARTBROKEN to learn about the devastating shooting in Beaufort County. Our prayers are with the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this horrific act of violence. If you have any information, please contact the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office at 843-255-3418, as soon as humanly possible.”

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