Four people have been killed and at least 20 injured in a mass shooting at a breakfast bar in South Carolina.
Large crowds were at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St Helena Island when gunshots were suddenly heard.
Emergency services arrived to people wounded at the bar, while other victims and witnesses had rushed into nearby buildings and businesses.
Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement: ‘Multiple victims and witnesses ran to the nearby businesses and properties seeking shelter from the gun shots.
‘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.
‘The Sheriff’s Office is investigating persons of interest. We appreciated the assistance of multiple Law Enforcement agencies, area Fire Departments, and Beaufort County EMS as we all worked the scene to assist those with injuries.
‘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.’
According to local reports, the shooting occurred as the bar was full of classmates enjoying a renunion.
Family members of people in the bar at the time said they were ‘shaken up’ by the trauma.
A concerned mother wrote: ‘My daughter was out there she is shaken up.’
Another said: ‘I had a customer come in my job just now. He said he’s seen everything he’s shaken up pretty bad.’
‘Couple of my classmates got shot can’t have a good time no more without someone shooting the place up’, another person said.
A woman whose family members were tragically caught in the gunfire said: ‘I lost 2 little cousins tonight…cant even go out anywhere anymore.’
Among the 20 injured, four remain in a critical condition in hospital.
Other victims presented themselves to local hospitals with injuries.
Authorities have yet to disclose the identities of those who have died.
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