Gunfire Incidents on the Rise in Beaufort Area
Beaufort has recently found itself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons, as local law enforcement has reported a troubling trend of gun violence that many residents hope to see come to an end. In just five days, police responded to a total of five gunfire-related incidents, raising alarms in communities north of the Broad River.
Unfortunate Events, But No Injuries Reported
Fortunately, there appears to be some good news amidst the chaos—no residents have been reported injured due to these incidents. However, it’s hard not to mention the heartbreaking case of a pitbull on St. Helena Island that suffered severe injuries, believed to be caused by shotgun blasts. The furry friend, named Enzo, will hopefully find recovery soon.
Accidental Gunfire Turns into Chaos
One of the incidents that caught the attention of authorities was marked as an accidental discharge. A man, spending the night at a friend’s apartment in the Views at River Bend complex on November 15, spotted a pistol carelessly left on the kitchen counter. Concerned for safety, he decided it was best to pick it up. Unfortunately, the situation quickly turned disastrous as he accidentally shot a round through the wall, which ultimately struck a computer server in the next room—thankfully causing no injuries, including to a 1-year-old child who was nearby.
Deputies concluded that this gunshot was, in fact, an accident, and the man involved was sober at the time. It really makes you think about how easily things can go awry when it comes to firearms!
Gunfire in the Streets
Just the next night, chaos unfolded in downtown Beaufort when shots rang out from a moving vehicle around 10:40 p.m. on November 16. Law enforcement didn’t waste time and quickly apprehended a man named Unique Stinson Ford from Ridgeland, the suspect in this case. While it’s a relief to hear that no one was injured or any property damaged during the incident, it does raise questions about the growing trend of violence.
More Gunshots, More Worries
Then came an alarming call from a Beaufort resident who was left shaken after attending a party on St. Helena Island on November 17. The woman reported hearing three gunshots outside her Honda Accord. On inspecting her car, she discovered a bullet hole in the passenger window and other damage suggesting a chaotic scene around her vehicle.
Shell Casings and Serious Concerns
As if that wasn’t enough for one week, more gunfire erupted late Monday night on Tombee Road, where a residence was reportedly struck multiple times. Responding officers collected numerous shell casings from the scene while ensuring that family members inside the home were unharmed.
Tragic Injury to a Local Pet
The situation escalated further with a report of a severely injured pitbull on Tuesday evening on Melody Lane. Concerned for the well-being of her dog, the owner rushed Enzo into the back of her SUV and informed police that her beloved pet had been shot by what looked like buckshot from a shotgun. She expressed her fears, explaining to officers that she often hears gunfire in the woods surrounding her home.
Enzo was transported to a local veterinarian, and while the outcome for the injured pitbull remains uncertain, the troubling pattern of gunfire in Beaufort continues to grow. This influx of reports has left many residents feeling uneasy, questioning their safety in the very neighborhoods they call home.
As of now, with only one arrest made and ongoing investigations, it’s evident that the community is hoping for swift action to put an end to this cleft of violence. Authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely, and residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
Stay safe, Beaufort!
