Columbia police search for suspect who pointed gun at officer

Columbia police are searching for a man they say pointed a firearm at a Columbia officer Thursday night near Lester Drive in north Columbia.

Police Chief Skip Holbrook said 26-year-old Ladarius Joye has warrants for his arrest for charges related to pointing and presenting a firearm as well as possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Holbrook said officers came into contact with Joye during a lawful traffic stop in the 4000 block of Lester Drive, near Bailey Street, Thursday night.

Joye allegedly removed his hands out of the sight of the officer, grabbed a gun and pointed it at the officer, Holbrook said.

The officer quickly stepped into a position of safe cover and was not physically harmed during the incident, Holbrook said.

Joye was able to flee from the vehicle and ran away from the scene toward S.C. 277, Holbrook said. Officers chased after Joye but were unable to locate him.

Holbrook said Joye should be considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information regarding Joye’s whereabouts is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.

This story was originally published November 20, 2015 at 12:25 PM.