Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Harriett Kay Recker, an 82-year-old woman, has been charged with murder and possession of a firearm during a violent crime after she shot her husband, 81-year-old Dennis Recker, at a care facility in Hilton Head Island. The tragic incident occurred at the Preston Health Center, leading to the husband’s death, and has shocked the local community. Harriett is currently awaiting a bond hearing as authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina – 82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder of Husband
Harriett Kay Recker, an 82-year-old woman, has been charged with murder and possession of a firearm during a violent crime following an incident at a care facility on Hilton Head Island. The shooting, which resulted in the death of her husband, 81-year-old Dennis Recker, occurred on September 12 at the Preston Health Center.
Deputies responded to the health center around 10:30 a.m. after reports of gunfire. Harriett Recker was found next to her husband, Dennis, who had sustained a gunshot wound. Despite the efforts of emergency services, Dennis Recker was pronounced dead at 11:26 a.m. by the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office. Dennis Recker was identified as a resident from Bluffton.
Following the incident, Harriett Kay Recker was taken into custody and is currently incarcerated at the Beaufort County Jail. She is awaiting a bond hearing, which will require approval from a circuit court judge. At this time, the authorities have not disclosed the motive behind the shooting, and the investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
Community Reaction
About the Preston Health Center
The Preston Health Center, where the incident occurred, is part of The Cypress of Hilton Head, which serves as a community for retirees. This event has raised concerns regarding safety and security in care facilities that serve vulnerable populations.
Investigation Status
Law enforcement is continuing its investigation, looking into the circumstances leading up to the shooting. No further details regarding the events prior to the incident have been released as authorities work to complete their inquiries.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Dennis Recker has left the community in distress, with many seeking clarity on the motive behind the shooting. Harriett Kay Recker’s next court appearance will be critical in determining the course of legal proceedings going forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges is Harriett Kay Recker facing?
Harriett Kay Recker has been charged with murder and possession of a firearm during a violent crime.
Where did the incident occur?
The incident occurred at the Preston Health Center in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.
What happened to Dennis Recker?
Dennis Recker sustained a gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at 11:26 a.m. on the same day of the incident.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for the shooting.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder in Hilton Head
Murder Charge Filed Against Elderly Woman on Hilton Head Island
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder in Hilton Head
Elderly Woman Arrested for Shooting at Hilton Head Care Facility
82-Year-Old Woman Arrested for Shooting Husband in Hilton Head
Hilton Head Island Woman Charged with Murder of Husband
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder on Hilton Head Island
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Husband’s Murder in Hilton Head
82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder in Hilton Head Shooting
82-Year-Old Woman Arrested for Murder in Hilton Head Island
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Hilton Head Island Shooting
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- WRAL: 82-Year-Old Charged with Killing Husband
- Google Search: Hilton Head Island shooting
- Island Packet: 82-Year-Old Woman Charged
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
- WBTV: Deputies Charge 82-Year-Old
- 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.
