Hilton Head, September 13, 2025
News Summary
An 82-year-old woman, Harriett Kay Recker, has been charged with murder after the shooting death of her husband at a nursing facility in Hilton Head. The incident occurred when police responded to reports of gunfire. Despite emergency measures, the 81-year-old husband was pronounced dead at the scene. Recker faces further charges related to armed violence and remains in custody. Community safety remains a priority as the investigation continues.
Hilton Head Island
An 82-year-old woman, Harriett Kay Recker, has been charged with murder following a tragic incident at the Preston Health Center at the Cypress of Hilton Head nursing facility. The incident unfolded on Friday at around 10:30 a.m. when law enforcement officials received reports of gunfire.
Upon arrival, deputies found Recker inside a patient’s room with her 81-year-old husband, who had suffered a fatal gunshot wound. Despite immediate efforts to administer lifesaving measures, the husband was pronounced dead at the scene. Recker has also been charged with possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, adding to the severity of the situation.
Currently, Recker is being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center with no bond set. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office is working to notify the victim’s family and will release their name once that is completed.
Authorities have stated that there is no ongoing threat to the community in the aftermath of the shooting, although they are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Details remain limited, but law enforcement advised the public to avoid the area while the investigation proceeds.
Facility Details
The Preston Health Center, where the incident occurred, is a 58-bed skilled-care facility dedicated to providing quality care and well-being for its residents. The facility is located behind the gates of the Hilton Head Plantation community, a private residential area.
Community Response
Neighbors and residents in the vicinity have expressed shock at the incident, confirming the occurrence of gunfire at the nursing facility. Local law enforcement has prioritized safety and security during the ongoing inquiry, and they continue to gather information and statements from those who may have witnessed the event.
Investigation Status
As the investigation develops, authorities are focusing on understanding the events leading up to the shooting, with investigators examining various aspects of the situation, including background information on both Recker and her husband.
Conclusion
The tragic death of the elderly man has left a profound impact on the community, and the investigation aims to bring clarity to the incident. As it progresses, additional details will be shared with the public to ensure transparency and address the concerns of residents.
FAQ
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.
Where did the shooting take place?
The shooting occurred at the Preston Health Center at the Cypress of Hilton Head nursing facility.
Was anyone else injured during the incident?
No other injuries have been reported. The authorities confirmed that there was no ongoing threat to the community.
What is the Preston Health Center?
The Preston Health Center is a skilled-care facility with a capacity of 58 beds that focuses on the well-being of its residents.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities gathering information and asking the public to avoid the area while they complete their work.
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Additional Resources
- WSAV News
- WJCL News
- ABC News 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
- Google Search: Hilton Head Island
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.
