Hilton Head Island, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Harriett Kay Recker, an 82-year-old woman, has been charged with the murder of her 81-year-old husband after allegedly fatally shooting him at the Preston Health Center in Hilton Head Island. The incident shocked residents of the gated community, which is known for its safe environment. Recker is being held without bond as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and motives remain unclear.
Hilton Head Island
An 82-year-old woman, Harriett Kay Recker, has been charged with murder after allegedly fatally shooting her husband at a care facility on Hilton Head Island. The incident occurred early on Friday morning at the Preston Health Center, a skilled nursing facility located in the Hilton Head Plantation community.
Authorities were alerted to the scene at approximately 10:30 a.m. when gunfire was reported. Deputies arrived and found Recker with her 81-year-old husband, who had sustained a gunshot wound. Despite immediate medical attention on-site, the victim succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. The identity of the husband has not yet been released by local coroner’s staff.
Recker, a resident of Sun City, was booked at the Beaufort County jail around 2 p.m. on Friday. In addition to the murder charge, she is facing a related firearms charge for possessing a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Currently, Recker is being held without bond as she awaits her first court appearance.
Community manager Chrissy Kristian informed residents of the facility that the suspect shot her husband in the torso, further highlighting the gravity of the incident. The couple had recently arrived at the Preston Health Center prior to the shooting, raising questions about what led to the tragic event.
Details of the Incident
Law enforcement officials have not disclosed any potential motives behind the shooting as the investigation is ongoing. Residents of Hilton Head Plantation, a gated community with approximately 10,000 residents, reported feelings of shock and concern following the incident. The community makes up nearly a third of the island’s total population and is known for its commitment to safe living.
The Investigation
As of late Friday afternoon, authorities continue to gather information regarding the circumstances that led to the shooting. The investigation includes reviewing security footage and interviewing other residents of the care facility to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.
Residents are being encouraged to reach out to law enforcement with any additional information that may assist in the investigation. While details remain limited, officials are expected to provide further updates in the coming days.
Background Information
Hilton Head Plantation is a prominent community known for its various amenities and services for residents, particularly the elderly. The Preston Health Center is one of several care facilities in the area, providing skilled nursing care to its residents. This incident marks a rare case of violence in a community that is largely regarded as safe.
As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the profound implications of such an incident, especially in a locale where residents are accustomed to a peaceful lifestyle.
Summary of Charges
| Charge | Description | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Murder | Allegedly fatally shooting her husband | Held without bond, awaiting court appearance |
| Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime | Firearms charge related to the incident | Pending |
FAQ
Who was involved in the shooting?
Harriett Kay Recker, 82, is charged with the murder of her husband, who was 81 years old.
Where did the incident occur?
The shooting took place at the Preston Health Center, a care facility in Hilton Head Plantation.
What charges are being brought against Harriett Kay Recker?
She faces charges of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
Is Harriett Kay Recker out on bail?
No, she is being held without bond.
What is known about the motive?
As of now, law enforcement has not released any information about a possible motive for the crime.
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Additional Resources
- WTOC: 82-year-old Woman in Custody After Shooting Killing Her Husband
- WSAV: Elderly Woman Arrested Charged with Murder in Hilton Head Island Shooting
- Live 5 News: Woman Arrested Following Fatal Shooting at Beaufort Co. Assisted Living Facility
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head
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.
