Accident – death – Obituary News :

Driver killed in Head-On Collision While Fleeing Police on I-126

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The Richland County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim of a fatal crash that occurred on Friday. 48-year-old Byron L. Pringle of Columbia lost his life when he collided head-on with another vehicle while attempting to evade law enforcement.

According to Coroner Naida Rutherford, the incident took place on I-126. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department received a tip from the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department at approximately 2:30 p.m., indicating that a suspect wanted on narcotics charges might be in the area.

Upon spotting the suspect’s vehicle, a 2017 Nissan Versa, a Richland County deputy initiated a traffic stop. However, the driver, later identified as Pringle, refused to comply and instead led deputies on a high-speed chase. In a dangerous maneuver, Pringle intentionally veered into oncoming traffic on I-26 near Colonial Life Boulevard, resulting in a tragic collision with another vehicle.

Tragically, Pringle succumbed to his injuries at the scene, while an occupant of the other vehicle involved was transported to the hospital for evaluation. The collision also affected two additional vehicles, causing significant traffic disruptions and the closure of a portion of I-126 for several hours on Friday afternoon.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol, Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and Richland County Coroner’s Office are collaborating in their investigation of this fatal crash.

Continued Efforts to Ensure Public Safety

Incidents like these highlight the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to maintain public safety and apprehend individuals involved in criminal activities. The coordination between the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department demonstrates the importance of interagency cooperation in targeting and apprehending suspects.

As investigations into this tragic incident continue, it serves as a reminder of the risks associated with attempting to evade law enforcement. The decision to engage in a high-speed chase places not only the fleeing individual but also innocent motorists at great risk.

Authorities urge individuals to comply with law enforcement instructions and to refrain from engaging in reckless behavior that endangers both their own lives and the lives of others on the road. By doing so, we can collectively work towards safer communities.

Support and Investigation

In the wake of this devastating incident, support services are available to both the families affected by the crash and the law enforcement officers involved. The Richland County Coroner’s Office is dedicated to conducting a thorough investigation, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to determine the exact cause of the collision.

As the investigation progresses, the South Carolina community eagerly awaits further updates from the authorities involved. The resolution of this case will bring closure to the families impacted and provide valuable insights into preventing similar tragedies in the future.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to the loved ones of Byron L. Pringle, as well as to the injured occupant of the other vehicle involved in this senseless tragedy. May they find strength and support during this difficult time.

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