South Carolina Woman Charged With Murder After Fatal Care Center Shooting
HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. — An 82-year-old woman has been charged with murder after her husband was fatally shot inside a Hilton Head Island care center Friday morning. Authorities say the incident took place at Preston Health Center, located within the Cypress of Hilton Head community.
Elderly Husband Fatally Shot
Deputies with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office responded around 10:30 a.m. on September 12 to reports of gunfire at the facility on Birdsong Way. When they arrived, they found 81-year-old Harriett Kay Recker’s husband with a gunshot wound inside the couple’s room. Despite immediate lifesaving efforts by medical staff and first responders, the man died from his injuries.
Suspect Taken Into Custody
Investigators confirmed that Harriett Kay Recker of Sun City was arrested at the scene. She has been charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Recker is currently being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center while the case moves forward.
Authorities emphasized that there was no broader threat to residents or staff, noting the shooting was isolated to the patient’s room.
Ongoing Investigation
The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office is withholding the victim’s identity until next of kin are notified. Officials said the investigation is active and detectives are working to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting.
The tragic events at Preston Health Center have shaken the Hilton Head community. What are your thoughts on safety inside long-term care facilities? Share your perspective in the comments and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
