SOUTH CAROLINA — A routine traffic stop in Newberry County escalated into a chase and multiple arrests involving several armed suspects, according to the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said a Whitmire Police Department officer initially stopped a vehicle for speeding after it pulled into the Lil Cricket convenience store. During the stop, the officer reportedly smelled marijuana and requested assistance from the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies also saw a gun between passengers inside the vehicle.
Three people — Yachi Pinson, 30; Kanijae T. Howard, 28; and Sanchez A. Gilliam, 29 — were arrested during the first stop. All three were charged with possession of a stolen weapon and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Deputies said two guns were seized during that stop.
As the investigation continued, 30-year-old Kyshawn R. Ware allegedly pushed away from officers and ran from the scene. Authorities said Ware was picked up by a second vehicle that then fled.
A responding deputy attempted to stop that vehicle, but officials said the driver intentionally rammed the deputy’s patrol car before fleeing through Whitmire.
The vehicle later approached the Whitmire Community Center, where three suspects, including Ware, jumped from the moving car and tried to run. During the pursuit, deputies said 25-year-old Jalen J. Hamrick pulled a gun on officers and was quickly disarmed before he could fire.
Ware was taken into custody. Hamrick was charged with breach of peace of a high and aggravated nature and resisting arrest with a deadly weapon. Ware faces charges of breach of peace of a high and aggravated nature and resisting arrest.
Investigators identified the driver of the second vehicle as 25-year-old Jonathan D. Thompson. He is expected to face charges including failing to stop for a law enforcement officer, attempted murder, and resisting arrest. Authorities said Thompson left the area in another vehicle from the Community Center and has not yet been located.
Deputies said three guns were recovered during the second traffic stop. Officials also stated that the suspects were in Whitmire to attend a party at the Whitmire Community Center.
According to the sheriff’s office, all of the arrested suspects are known gang members, and one was wearing an ankle monitor at the time of the incident.
Sheriff Lee Foster said no officers or citizens were shot or seriously injured and commended law enforcement for their response. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges are possible.
