Sumter, SC – A stabbing in Sumter County escalated into a multi-county high-speed chase and gunfire Wednesday evening, leaving the suspect dead, according to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded around 6:13 p.m. to a domestic disturbance on Wendemere Drive, where they found a stabbing victim who was rushed to Prisma Health Tuomey for treatment.
According to deputies, the suspect fled the scene in a white Hyundai, prompting a pursuit through Sumter and Kershaw counties before heading northbound on Highway 15 into Lee County. During the chase, officials said the suspect allegedly fired shots at deputies, who returned fire. The pursuit ended when the suspect’s car crashed on Ashwood School Road.
The suspect, who sustained a gunshot wound, was transported to Prisma Health Tuomey and later pronounced dead. The stabbing victim’s condition has not been released.
Authorities reported that no deputies were struck by gunfire, though one deputy suffered an ankle injury and is expected to recover. Sheriff Anthony Dennis said he was grateful no citizens were harmed during the incident, adding, “The suspect attempted to kill someone this afternoon and then attempted to kill one of our deputies. I am grateful he failed in both attempts.”
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and Highway Patrol are investigating. Additional details are expected in the coming days.
