Hilton Head Island, September 13, 2025
News Summary
An 82-year-old woman, Harriet Kay Recker, has been charged with murder after allegedly fatally shooting her 81-year-old husband at the Preston Health Center in Hilton Head Island. The shooting occurred during Friday morning and resulted in the husband’s death despite immediate medical assistance. Recker is currently held at Beaufort County Jail without bond as the investigation continues, with authorities assuring the community there is no ongoing threat.
Hilton Head Island Woman Charged with Murder Following Fatal Shooting of Husband
An 82-year-old woman, Harriet Kay Recker, faces serious charges of murder and firearms possession after allegedly fatally shooting her 81-year-old husband at a care facility on Hilton Head Island. The incident occurred on Friday morning at the Preston Health Center, where deputies were dispatched around 11 a.m. following reports of shots fired.
When authorities arrived at the scene, they found Recker alongside her husband, who had sustained a gunshot wound. Despite immediate lifesaving efforts from responders, the husband succumbed to his injuries. In light of the investigation, Recker is being held at the Beaufort County Jail without bond and is awaiting her first court appearance.
Following the incident, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the community. The shooting investigation is still active, and further details may be released as authorities continue their inquiries. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office is anticipated to disclose the deceased’s identity after notifying the next of kin.
Incident Details
The police received a call just before 11 a.m. regarding shots fired within a patient’s room at the Preston Health Center. This skilled-care facility is located at 87 Birdsong Way in the Hilton Head Plantation community. Upon arrival, deputies discovered Recker and her husband in a patient room, where the shooting had taken place.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Harriet Kay Recker has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. These serious charges reflect the nature of the incident and will likely lead to a significant legal process ahead. The court will determine the next steps for Recker following her initial court appearance.
Community Impact
The incident has understandably raised concerns within the local community, though local authorities have reassured residents that there is no wider threat resulting from this event. This reassurance may help to quell fears among residents of the Hilton Head Plantation community, known primarily for its retirement living and serene atmosphere.
Background
While further details about the couple’s history or circumstances leading up to the shooting have not been released, this event marks a tragic occurrence in what is typically seen as a peaceful community. The Preston Health Center, where the incident occurred, provides skilled nursing care to residents, many of whom are elderly individuals needing assistance. The facility is recognized for its focus on patient care and community building.
FAQ Section
What happened in Hilton Head Island?
An 82-year-old woman, Harriet Kay Recker, was charged with murder after allegedly shooting her husband at the Preston Health Center.
What charges is Harriet Kay Recker facing?
Recker is facing charges of murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
What time did the shooting occur?
The shooting was reported to authorities just before 11 a.m. on Friday.
Where did the incident take place?
The incident occurred at the Preston Health Center, located at 87 Birdsong Way in Hilton Head Plantation.
Is there a threat to the community?
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the community following the incident.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Charged Individual | Harriet Kay Recker (82 years old) |
| Victim | Husband (81 years old) |
| Date of Incident | Friday |
| Location | Preston Health Center, Hilton Head Island |
| Charges | Murder, Possession of a Weapon During Commission of a Violent Crime |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
| Community Impact | No broader threat confirmed |
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Additional Resources
- WSAV: Elderly Woman Arrested for Murder in Hilton Head Island Shooting
- WJCL: Hilton Head Island Birdsong Way Shooting
- WTOC: 82-Year-Old Woman in Custody After Shooting Her Husband
- ABC News 4: 82-Year-Old Arrested for Husband’s Murder
- Island Packet: 82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder
- Wikipedia: Murder
- Google Search: Homicide Law
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- Google News: Hilton Head Island Shooting
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
