Columbia, SC (February 23, 2025) – A traffic stop on Broad River Road and Zimalcrest Drive took a dangerous turn early Saturday morning when a drunk driver crashed into a Richland County Sheriff’s Department patrol car, causing it to hit a deputy and a civilian.
The incident occurred around 2:00 AM when deputies conducted a traffic stop on a driver who had made an improper lane change. During the stop, officers discovered multiple firearms in the vehicle, prompting them to ask the driver and passenger to exit. As an assisting deputy stood outside the roadway with the passenger near the patrol car, an oncoming drunk driver struck the rear of the patrol car, pushing it forward and hitting both the deputy and the civilian.
Emergency responders immediately arrived on the scene. The civilian was transported to a local hospital for treatment, while the deputy sustained minor injuries and was cleared on-site by EMS. The impaired driver responsible for the crash was identified as 36-year-old Capona Turner and was taken into custody.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Our thoughts are with the injured civilian, and we hope for a full recovery.
The Dangers of Drunk Driving and Roadside Accidents in Columbia
Traffic stops pose significant risks for both law enforcement officers and civilians, especially when vehicles are pulled over on busy roadways like Broad River Road. When drivers fail to notice or react to stationary emergency vehicles, high-speed rear-end collisions can result in devastating injuries.
Drunk driving continues to be a leading cause of fatal and severe injury crashes in South Carolina. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, poor judgment, and difficulty maintaining control of their vehicles, putting others at extreme risk. South Carolina law requires motorists to move over or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles on the roadside to help prevent such incidents.
For victims of drunk driving crashes, seeking medical care, documenting the scene, and understanding legal options are crucial steps in ensuring recovery. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving crash, help is available. Local Accident Reports provides resources and information to assist individuals navigating the aftermath of serious collisions.