Bluffton, SC, September 19, 2025
News Summary
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has deemed a shopping area in Bluffton safe after an evacuation due to reports of a potential explosive device. The incident, which occurred outside the CVS Pharmacy at Target on Fording Island Road, prompted urgent action from law enforcement. An extensive search was conducted with no suspicious items found, and the area reopened later that evening. An active investigation continues as authorities encourage residents to report any relevant information.
Bluffton
The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) has declared a shopping area in Bluffton safe for public access after conducting an evacuation due to reports of a possible explosive device. The incident unfolded on Tuesday afternoon around 3 p.m., concerning a location outside the CVS Pharmacy inside the Target on Fording Island Road.
As precautionary measures, law enforcement initiated evacuations at the Target store, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and a nearby CVS while investigations were underway to ensure public safety. The BCSO mobilized their Drone Unit and Explosive Ordinance Unit for an extensive area search to locate any potential threats.
Authorities completed their search and investigation without finding any suspicious packages or explosive devices. Subsequently, the area was deemed safe and reopened to the public at approximately 7:15 p.m. Despite the resolution of this incident, the BCSO is continuing an active investigation to gather more information and verify the nature of the alert.
Residents living in the vicinity of the incident are encouraged to report any relevant information. The BCSO has made it clear that tips can be submitted through their non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777. Additionally, anonymous tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County via the P3 Tips app, online, or by calling 844-847-7238.
This event highlights the swift response and thorough investigation by the BCSO, ensuring public safety in the Bluffton area. The rapid evacuation procedures and use of specialized units confirm the commitment of local law enforcement to handle potential threats effectively.
Background Context
Emergency protocols for explosive threats require immediate action to protect public safety. Such incidents, while rare, have led to increased training and readiness among law enforcement agencies to respond effectively. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has prior experience handling similar situations, which reinforces their capability to determine and neutralize threats to the community swiftly.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Possible explosive device threat |
| Date and Time | Tuesday, around 3 p.m. |
| Locations Affected | Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, CVS Pharmacy |
| Search Units Involved | BCSO Drone Unit, Explosive Ordinance Unit |
| Investigation Status | Active investigation by BCSO |
| Community Involvement | Tips can be reported via BCSO non-emergency line or Crime Stoppers |
| Reopening Time | Approximately 7:15 p.m. |
FAQ
What prompted the evacuation in Bluffton?
The evacuation was prompted by a report of a possible explosive device received by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) on Tuesday afternoon around 3 p.m.
Which locations were evacuated?
Precautionary evacuations were conducted at Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and a nearby CVS during the investigation.
What was the outcome of the investigation?
No suspicious packages or explosive devices were found during the investigation, and the area was declared safe and reopened to the public at approximately 7:15 p.m.
Is the investigation still ongoing?
Yes, the incident is still under active investigation by the BCSO.
What should residents do if they have information about the incident?
Residents are encouraged to report any information related to this incident by calling the BCSO non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777.
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Bluffton Store Safe After Threat
- Wikipedia: Bluffton, South Carolina
- Bluffton Today: News from Around the Lowcountry
- Google Search: Bluffton South Carolina news
- Island Packet: Bluffton Incident Details
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bluffton
- ABC News 4: Beaufort County Investigates Device Threat
- Google News: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office
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.
