Community reacts to early morning shooting on Hilton Head Island

HILTON HEAD, SC. (WTOC) - Two men were shot but survived in an early morning shooting on Hilton Head Island. The teen suspects involved in the shooting have since been arrested on multiple charges.

At around 1:30 a.m., the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office responded to a gunshot victim on South Forest Beach Drive on Hilton Head Island. The sheriff’s office was notified of a suspect matching vehicle. Police then tried to pull over that same vehicle, but it attempted to flee. Deputies were able to successfully stop the vehicle using a tire deflation device, ultimately ending the pursuit on Sunday Ford Drive.

Community reaction

Jeff and Rose Howard visit Hilton Head each year and stay near the shooting scene. They said they never have any issues when they visit each year, but after hearing about the violence near their quiet street, they plan to adjust their routine.

“Make the walk a little shorter, make sure it’s done by dark, maybe turn around now,” the Howards said.

A long-term resident, who did not want to appear on camera showed us her Nextdoor app, she said she was alarmed immediately about the shooting, saying violence is not common in the area.

Arrests and charges

Two teens were arrested by the sheriff’s office Sunday morning.

18-year-old Erick Alexander Martinez Ambrosio is facing multiple charges including attempted murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime and aggravated breach of peace.

17-year-old Jonathan Ambrosio is also facing several charges, including accessory after the fact of attempted murder.

One victim was at the scene when officers arrived. The other was found at the hospital.