Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, September 13, 2025
News Summary
In a shocking incident at a skilled care facility in Hilton Head Island, an 82-year-old woman, Harriett Kay Recker, was arrested for allegedly shooting her 81-year-old husband. The police confirmed that the incident occurred at the Preston Health Center, leading to the tragic death of the victim. Authorities state there is no ongoing threat to the community as the investigation unfolds. Enhanced law enforcement presence has been established to ensure safety around the facility.
Hilton Head Island
An 82-year-old woman, Harriett Kay Recker, was arrested for murder after she allegedly shot her husband on Friday morning, September 12, 2025, at a skilled care facility in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Recker is facing charges of murder as well as possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. at the Preston Health Center, located at 87 Birdsong Way. Despite the immediate response from medics, the 81-year-old victim, who was identified as Recker’s husband, suffered a fatal gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office has not released the identity of the victim, as officials are waiting to notify the next of kin before making further announcements.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Recker was taken into custody around 2 p.m. that same day. Authorities confirmed that there was only one shooter and assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the surrounding community. Enhanced law enforcement presence was established near the facility to ensure safety, and residents were advised to steer clear of the area while the investigation unfolded.
Incident Details
According to community manager Chrissy Kristian, the couple had recently moved into the Preston Health Center before the tragic event took place. The facility is reputed for its upscale, resident-focused care environment, offering a total of 58 beds for skilled nursing.
Investigation Status
The investigation by law enforcement is ongoing as they collect information related to the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Additional updates and details are anticipated as authorities continue to unravel the situation.
Background on Preston Health Center
The Preston Health Center has built a solid reputation as a caring and upscale facility that focuses on the needs of its residents. The center offers various services to residents, including skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, and support for those with chronic illnesses. The recent incident has raised questions about safety and incident response protocols within care facilities.
This incident marks a rare and shocking event within a typically peaceful environment, prompting discussions about the challenges and complexities of providing care for individuals, especially couples, in skilled nursing facilities.
FAQs
What charges has Harriett Kay Recker faced?
Harriett Kay Recker has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
What happened to the victim?
The victim, who has not yet been publicly identified, suffered a gunshot wound and died despite lifesaving efforts by medics on the scene.
Where did the shooting occur?
The shooting occurred at the Preston Health Center, a skilled care facility located at 87 Birdsong Way, Hilton Head Island, SC.
Is the community at risk following the shooting?
Law enforcement confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the wider community, as only one shooter was involved in the incident.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Harriett Kay Recker, 82 years old |
| Victim | Husband of Recker, 81 years old |
| Location | Preston Health Center, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Date of Incident | September 12, 2025 |
| Charges | Murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime |
| Response Time | Medics arrived on the scene shortly after the shooting |
| Law Enforcement Status | No ongoing threat, increased presence in the area |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WTOC
- Wikipedia: Murder
- WSAV
- Google Search: Hilton Head Island
- WJCL
- Google Scholar: Nursing Care Facilities
- Live 5 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Assisted Living
- WTOC Video
- Google News: Hilton Head 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.
