Hilton Head, SC, October 2, 2025
News Summary
An off-duty Beaufort County sheriff’s deputy, Master Sgt. William ‘Billy’ Squires, has been suspended after he pointed a gun at three unarmed 14-year-old boys in Hilton Head. The incident, captured on video, has led to community outrage and investigations into Squires’ actions. Families of the boys are seeking legal representation, while others argue for stricter law enforcement measures. With no firearm found, the deputy’s conduct raises serious questions about police response to perceived threats.
Hilton Head Incident Involving Off-Duty Deputy Sparks Outrage
Hilton Head, SC – An off-duty Beaufort County sheriff’s deputy, Master Sgt. William “Billy” Squires, has been suspended after a disturbing incident on September 28, 2025, in the Squiresgate neighborhood, where he reportedly pointed a gun at three 14-year-old boys. Squires, who has served the sheriff’s department for 19 years, is facing scrutiny following the viral video showing him threatening the teenagers while accusing them of possessing a firearm.
The confrontation occurred around 6:47 PM, when a bearded man on a green all-terrain vehicle approached the boys before Squires arrived in a white pickup truck. The video circulating on social media captures Squires pointing a firearm at the teenagers and ordering them to get on the ground. Witness accounts confirm that the boys were unarmed and walking in the neighborhood at the time.
In the moments captured on video, one of the boys can be seen struggling with Squires, who allegedly accused them of having a gun. However, police investigations have found no evidence of any firearm present during the incident, raising questions about the deputy’s reaction.
Immediate Actions Taken
Following the alarming incident, Squires was suspended without pay and stripped of his badge and service weapon. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, alongside the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), has launched concurrent investigations to determine the circumstances and whether criminal charges will be pursued.
The statements from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office highlight a commitment to maintaining professional standards among law enforcement officers, emphasizing the importance of proper conduct both on and off duty. Squires has a history of prior discipline, although he had little to no reported disciplinary issues since joining the department in 2006.
Community Reactions
The incident has triggered a wave of public outrage regarding police conduct, juvenile treatment, and safety protocols within the community. Families of the involved minors are actively seeking legal representation with hopes of pursuing action against Squires and the sheriff’s office. However, there appears to be some community support for Squires, as some residents cite concerns about juvenile delinquency in the area, arguing for the need for strict measures against perceived troublemakers.
As investigations continue, the identities of the involved minors remain protected due to their age. The focus on community safety and law enforcement standards has intensified as citizens demand accountability and a thorough review of the policies governing police behavior, especially concerning interactions with youth.
Ongoing Investigations
The two official investigations by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and SLED aim to assess the actions taken by Squires during the incident and determine if further legal measures should be implemented. As more details emerge and the investigations unfold, the community waits for clarity on the implications surrounding the deputy’s conduct and its broader impact on local law enforcement practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened on September 28, 2025, in Hilton Head?
An off-duty Beaufort County sheriff’s deputy, Master Sgt. William “Billy” Squires, reportedly pulled a gun on a group of three 14-year-old boys in the Squiresgate neighborhood.
How long has Master Sgt. William “Billy” Squires served in the sheriff’s department?
Squires has 19 years of service with the Beaufort County sheriff’s department and was previously disciplined.
What actions have been taken against Squires following the incident?
Squires was suspended without pay and stripped of his badge and service weapon.
What do investigators hope to determine from their inquiries?
Investigating agencies are expected to determine if criminal charges will be pursued following the completion of the investigations.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Involved Individual | Master Sgt. William “Billy” Squires |
| Date of Incident | September 28, 2025 |
| Location | Squiresgate neighborhood, Hilton Head |
| Victims’ Ages | 14 years old |
| Action Taken Against Squires | Suspended without pay, stripped of badge and weapon |
| Current Investigations | Conducted by Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and SLED |
| Community Reaction | Outrage, legal representation sought by families |
| Evidence Found | No firearm found with the teenagers |
