Deputy hospitalized after chase ends in crash that blocks interstate in the Midlands
A stolen car chase ended in a crash that left a deputy hospitalized and blocked traffic on an highway running through the Midlands Wednesday morning, officials said.
The crash on Interstate 20 came as drivers hit the road at the start of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, causing a traffic jam for drivers heading toward Columbia.
All of the westbound lanes on I-20 were blocked following the wreck that happened at about 10:50 a.m. at exit 92 in Kershaw County, the South Carolina Department of Transportation said. That is the junction with U.S. 601, and the exit for Lugoff, Camden, and St. Matthews.
It is a few miles from the Richland County line.
A Kershaw County sheriff’s deputy was injured in the collision and was taken to an area hospital, the sheriff’s office said. Further information on the deputy’s condition was not available.
Two people in the stolen vehicle received medical treatment from EMS, according to the sheriff’s office. There was no word on their condition, or possible criminal charges.
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety originally said no injuries were reported in the crash.
Information on when the vehicle was stolen, and where the pursuit began, was not made available.
“Expect delays while first responders work to clear the roadway!” said Master Trooper David Jones of the South Carolina Highway Patrol.
At about noon, all of the westbound lanes on I-20 reopened, but there was not word on when the scene was expected to be completed cleared.
Tips for holiday travel
South Carolina Highway Patrol offered safety advice for drivers who will be traveling for Thanksgiving.
▪ Prepare you vehicle
▪ Plan ahead
▪ Don’t cut in front of big trucks
▪ Be aware of blind spots
▪ Buckle Up
▪ Be Safe
SOURCE: South Carolina Highway Patrol
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This story was originally published November 25, 2020 at 11:15 AM.
