West Columbia, SC (Paul Kirby) - A driver who initiated a pursuit with South Carolina State Troopers wrecked the vehicle he was driving before fleeing on foot and making an escape. This all occurred Wednesday morning.
According to law enforcement officials, the lead trooper in the chase realized that traffic conditions were becoming unsafe and discontinued the pursuit at Hwy. 378 and I-26. The fleeing driver, thinking the trooper was still pursuing him, exited onto Sunset Boulevard where he lost control of his vehicle and turned it onto its side. He then exited the vehicle and fled on foot.
Troopers called for assistance and officers with the West Columbia Police Department and deputies from Lexington County flooded the area to set up a perimeter. Still, the man who ran was able to escape the large law enforcement dragnet. As of noon Wednesday, no one was in custody regarding the chase and collision.
Troopers do have the vehicle and hope that they can identify the driver from items left in it. At some point, pursuits become unsafe because of traffic or road conditions. In this incident, troopers realize that the traffic in the area between the Saluda River and Augusta Road would have been too heavy to safely continue pursuing.
If you have any idea who the driver is that fled, please call CRIME STOPPERS at 1 888-Crime SC. You can also provide tips through CRIME STOPPERS’ website at www.midlandscrimestoppers.com.
