Bluffton Community Torn by a Card Game Shooting Incident
In the peaceful town of Bluffton, an argument over a simple card game turned dangerous, leading to a violent incident that has left residents shocked. Earlier this month, a disagreement during a game of spades escalated into a chaotic shootout that sent one man to the hospital with serious injuries.
The Incident Unfolds
According to reports from the Bluffton Police Department, the drama began around midnight on September 1, when officers received a distress call from Maidencane Street, located in the residential Wellstone community. A woman alerted authorities that her nephew, a 43-year-old man from Savannah, had been shot in the neck and possibly the side. He was swiftly transported to Coastal Carolina Hospital for emergency treatment.
Sharing the Details
At the hospital, the victim shared with law enforcement that the trouble began while playing spades—a popular card game involving some friendly wagering. For this particular game, participants were placing a $20 buy-in. However, when the victim opted not to pay the entrance fee, things took a turn for the worse. The shooter, identified as 36-year-old Wesley Bush III from Beaufort, became furious, threatening to kill the man during the heated argument over the game.
Following the dispute, both men decided to drive away in their separate vehicles. As the victim drove along May River Road, he pulled over to gather his thoughts and called his aunt for support. Just then, headlights appeared behind him, signaling trouble.
A Gunshot Exchange
Through his rearview mirror, the victim saw Bush’s vehicle inching closer before the shots rang out. He later recounted that he heard a barrage of at least ten gunshots coming from Bush’s car. In a frantic attempt to protect himself, the victim grabbed his own firearm and returned fire with three shots of his own. The accused fled from the scene shortly thereafter.
Following the Trail
When police arrived at the hospital to take statements, they examined the victim’s truck, which was riddled with bullet holes on the windshield and driver’s side door. Investigators scoured the location where the shooting occurred and discovered several shell casings, broken glass, and tire tracks in the grass—clues that could lead them to the shooter.
In a twist of serendipity, a neighbor’s doorbell camera provided crucial footage of the victim knocking for help after being shot. When the neighbor answered, the victim reportedly exclaimed, “No, call the police, I have been shot three times.” It was a dramatic scene that captured the gravity of the situation.
The Arrest and Charges
Thanks to the evidence gathered that night, police were able to obtain arrest warrants for Bush just twelve hours after the shooting. He was apprehended by Beaufort County deputies, facing multiple serious charges including attempted murder and unlawful possession of a handgun.
During a detention hearing, a judge ordered Bush to refrain from contacting the victim while postponing the ruling on his bail until circuit court proceedings in mid-October. It’s worth noting that Bush has a history of run-ins with the law, including prior convictions for domestic violence and drug possession.
A Community on High Alert
The shocking events surrounding what was supposed to be a friendly night of cards have left many residents in Bluffton feeling uneasy. While this incident was certainly unusual for the area, it serves as a reminder of the potential for anger to escalate and the importance of maintaining peace even in competitive situations. The community is left to ponder just how quickly a fun evening can spiral into chaos.
As of now, Bush remains in custody at the Beaufort County Detention Center, and the victim’s condition continues to be of great concern. The town of Bluffton hopes for a swift recovery for the wounded man and peace of mind for its residents.
