News out of South Carolina

Four people were killed and at least 20 others have been injured in an early morning shooting at a busy South Carolina bar, authorities say.

The shooting occurred shortly before 1 a.m. on Oct. 12 at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island, according to the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office. The restaurant is located about an hour north of Hilton Head.

“Multiple victims and witnesses ran to the nearby businesses and properties seeking shelter from the gun shots,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. Hundreds of people were at the scene when police arrived.

Multiple victims were transported to area hospitals. Among those injured, at least four were in critical condition.

“This is a tragic and difficult incident for everyone. We ask for your patience as we continue to investigate this incident. Our thoughts are with all of the victims and their loved ones, “ the sheriff's office said.

Authorities said they are looking into persons of interest in the shooting, but the sheriff's office declined to provide additional information to USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 4 killed, at least 20 injured in South Carolina bar shooting, authorities say

Reporting by Karissa Waddick, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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