Crime & Safety
Florence County, SC Shooting: Deputies Fire on Armed Suspect
Florence County, SC – A suspect was hospitalized Wednesday after authorities say a search …
By Natalie Rhodes · 2026-09-09T19:09:21.314Z
Florence County, SC – A suspect was hospitalized Wednesday after authorities say a search warrant attempt in Florence County escalated into a vehicle pursuit, foot chase and exchange of gunfire involving sheriff& 39;s deputies.
According to the Florence County Sheriff& 39;s Office, deputies attempted to serve a search warrant earlier Wednesday on Lake City Highway near Johnsonville, South Carolina. Authorities said the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle, leading deputies on a pursuit into neighboring Williamsburg County.
The sheriff& 39;s office said the suspect eventually left the vehicle and allegedly ran into a wooded area near Muddy Creek Road. Deputies followed the suspect into the area as the incident continued.
According to the sheriff& 39;s office, the suspect allegedly displayed a firearm and fired at deputies. Authorities said deputies then discharged their weapons.
The suspect was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment. Officials did not immediately provide information about the suspect& 39;s condition or identify the person involved.
No Florence County Sheriff& 39;s Office deputies were injured during the incident, according to the agency.
Florence County Sheriff T.J. Joye has requested that the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division investigate the officer involved shooting. The sheriff& 39;s office said it is cooperating fully with SLED& 39;s investigation.
The shooting occurred near the Florence Williamsburg county line area, east of Columbia and northwest of Myrtle Beach. The investigation could affect residents in and around Johnsonville and nearby Williamsburg County as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Additional information, including the suspect& 39;s identity and condition, had not been released by authorities as of Wednesday afternoon.