Vandalism on the Rise at Hilton Head’s Abandoned Gas Station

News Summary

Hilton Head Island’s once-busy Kangaroo Express gas station has become an eyesore following the collapse of its roof during Tropical Storm Debby. Left abandoned, the site is now plagued with vandalism, including graffiti by local taggers. Despite Beaufort County’s efforts to address the situation, the property owner has not yet responded to notices about its deteriorating state. Local residents are increasingly concerned about the future of this once-popular stop and the ongoing issues surrounding the property.

Hilton Head Island’s Abandoned Gas Station Faces Vandalism Fallout

On the beautiful Hilton Head Island, a former convenience store and gas station has transformed from a familiar pit stop into an unfortunate eyesore. Once known as the Kangaroo Express, this gas station has been left in shambles following the collapse of its roof during the heavy rains brought on by Tropical Storm Debby on August 6, 2024.

The Storm Aftermath

The aging structure couldn’t handle the weight of a preexisting pool of rainwater, leading to its roof caving in during the downpour. Miraculously, the building was empty at the time, and no injuries were reported. However, since that fateful day, the gas station and its pumps have been permanently out of service, leaving the surrounding area a little more rundown.

A Sinking Feeling

Being right next to the busy BP gas pumps, the abandoned Kangaroo Express has slowly started to deteriorate. The front-facing awning is bulging out as the structure continues to sink, making it hard to ignore its sorry state as you drive by. It’s a stark reminder of nature’s power and a community’s challenges in dealing with abandoned properties.

County’s Response

On January 9, 2025, officials from Beaufort County issued an “initial notice” to the property owner, declaring the gas station unfit for human habitation. The property owner has been given 30 days to respond and agree to a hearing. Following that, they will have another 60 days to either secure permits or commence repairs. However, if the owner does not step up to remedy the situation, the county has the capability to take matters into their own hands and demolish the building.

The Waiting Game

As of late January, county officials have yet to receive confirmation that the property owner got the initial notice. This lack of response means the future of the once-busy gas station hangs in the balance. Interestingly, if the owner opts for demolition, there’s no specified deadline, leaving locals to wonder how long this eyesore will linger on the landscape.

Vandalism in the Shadows

“Spark.” Surveillance footage indicates these vandals could be linked to similar incidents that have taken place in nearby Bluffton.

A Word on Ownership

Looking Ahead

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HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Island Packet: Hilton Head Island’s Abandoned Gas Station Faces Vandalism Fallout
• Wikipedia: Vandalism
• AOL: Suspect Jailed in Hilton Head Gas Station Incident
• Google Search: Hilton Head Island Gas Station Vandalism
• Island Packet: Local Crime Reports
• Google Scholar: Abandoned Properties
• Island Packet: Community Response to Local Crimes
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Decay
• Island Packet: Impact of Abandonment on Communities
• Google News: Abandoned Gas Stations