Full Notification

The Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the shooting incident that occurred Tuesday night on Widewater Road, Spanish Wells Plantation on Hilton Head Island. Based on information gathered thus far in the investigation, 39-year-old Jennifer Rudemyer shot 60-year-old Gaston Perez multiple times and Rudemyer died as a result of a single, self-inflicted gunshot wound—consistent with suicide, according to witness accounts and a forensic autopsy. A handgun was found in proximity to Rudemyer during the crime scene investigation. 

The investigation into the origin of the handgun Rudemyer used in the shooting incident revealed that she applied to purchase the handgun from a local merchant on Tuesday, August 28th. Rudemyer was unable to immediately obtain the handgun due to a required criminal background check. The following Tuesday, September 4th—after the background check and on the same day of the shooting—Rudemyer returned to the local merchant and picked up the handgun and ammunition. At the time of the handgun purchase there was nothing prohibiting Rudemyer from lawfully purchasing and possessing a handgun.

There are rumors that have surfaced on social media, which the Sheriff's Office is aware of and investigating. According to family members this afternoon, Gaston Perez is stable and alert at Savannah Memorial.
 
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Corporal Andrew Calore 843-255-3411 or Crimestoppers 1-888-CrimeSC if wishing to remain anonymous.

We appreciate your partnership and continued commitment to the safety of our community.