Hilton Head, September 14, 2025
News Summary
An 82-year-old woman, Harriet Kay Recker, has been arrested for allegedly shooting her 81-year-old husband at Preston Health Center in Hilton Head. The incident, which occurred in the morning, resulted in the husband succumbing to his injuries despite emergency efforts. Recker faces charges of murder and illegal possession of a weapon. The local community is responding with shock and concern as an investigation continues.
Hilton Head
An 82-year-old woman named Harriet Kay Recker has been arrested following an incident in which she is accused of shooting her 81-year-old husband. The shooting occurred on the morning of September 12, 2025, at the Preston Health Center in Hilton Head, prompting a swift law enforcement response.
At approximately 10:30 a.m., deputies arrived at the facility located at 87 Birdsong Way after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon entering the husband’s room, they discovered him suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency personnel performed lifesaving measures, but unfortunately, the husband did not survive his injuries. His identity has not been publicly disclosed.
As a result of the incident, Recker has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. She is currently being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center without bond. Authorities have confirmed that no other suspects are involved and that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Details Surrounding the Incident
Harriet Kay Recker is a resident of the Sun City community in Bluffton. The Preston Health Center is a Medicare-certified facility that provides short-term, long-term, and memory care services to its residents. The tragic event has led to an increased law enforcement presence in the area, and officials have urged the public to steer clear of the facility as the investigation unfolds.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is still active, and more details are anticipated to be made available in the coming days. Authorities are working diligently to gather all relevant information related to the case, ensuring a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Community Reaction
The shooting incident has raised concerns among residents and families associated with the health care facility. As investigators work through the details, the community remains on high alert, with many residents expressing shock and sympathy for the family involved.
Key Points
- Incident Location: Preston Health Center, 87 Birdsong Way, Hilton Head.
- Suspect: Harriet Kay Recker, 82 years old, resident of Sun City community.
- Victim: 81-year-old husband (identity not disclosed).
- Charges: Murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
- Current Status of Suspect: Held at Beaufort County Detention Center with no bond.
- Community Impact: Increased law enforcement presence and public advised to avoid the area.
Background Context
Gun violence in senior care facilities is a rare occurrence, yet incidents like this highlight the potential for tragedy even in places meant for healing and support. The Preston Health Center caters to individuals requiring specialized medical attention, including those facing memory challenges and mobility issues. The shooting has not only affected the family of the victim but has also unsettled those living and working within the facility and the wider Hilton Head community.
FAQ
What happened on September 12, 2025, in Hilton Head?
An 82-year-old woman allegedly shot her 81-year-old husband in a health care facility. The husband later died from his injuries.
What charges has Harriet Kay Recker faced?
Recker has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
Is there any threat to the public following this incident?
Authorities have confirmed that there are no other suspects and no ongoing threat to the community.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect’s Name | Harriet Kay Recker |
| Age of Suspect | 82 years |
| Husband’s Age | 81 years |
| Location of Incident | Preston Health Center, Hilton Head |
| Time of Incident | 10:30 a.m. |
| Charges | Murder, Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime |
| Status of Suspect | Held without bond at Beaufort County Detention Center |
| Community Impact | Increased law enforcement presence, public advised to avoid the area |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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
Tragic Incident at Evergreen High School: A Community in Shock
Tragic Shooting at Evergreen High School Leaves One Dead and Two Wounded
19-Year-Old Charged with Attempted Murder in Bluffton Shooting
Legislators Address Affordable Housing Crisis in Hilton Head
Additional Resources
- WTOC: One Injured, One in Custody After Shooting in Hilton Head Island
- Wikipedia: Shooting
- WTOC: 82-Year-Old Woman in Custody After Shooting and Killing Her Husband
- Google Search: Hilton Head Shooting
- Island Packet: Local Crime News
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence in Health Care Facilities
- WSAV: Elderly Woman Arrested Charged With Murder in Hilton Head Island Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- WTOC Video: 82-Year-Old Woman Charged with Murder After Shooting in Hilton Head Island
- Google News: Hilton Head Island Crime
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.
