Columbia, South Carolina – Authorities have arrested a woman several days after a hit-and-run incident left a middle school student injured while crossing a roadway in Columbia. Police say the crash occurred earlier this month and prompted an investigation by the department’s Traffic Safety Unit.
Incident Overview
According to the Columbia Police Department, the incident happened on December 9 in the 5200 block of Fairfield Road. Investigators say a 12-year-old boy was attempting to cross the road when he was struck by a vehicle that did not stop at the scene.
Officers later identified and arrested Shanekea Brown, 32, in connection with the crash. Police confirmed that Brown was taken into custody days after the incident as detectives worked to locate the driver involved.
Arrest and Charges Filed
Brown was booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center and now faces multiple charges related to the incident. According to jail records and police statements, she has been charged with:
- Hit-and-run involving minor injury
- Failure to give information and render aid
- Driving without a license
Investigators say these charges stem from Brown allegedly leaving the scene without stopping to assist the injured child or provide identifying information, which is required by law in South Carolina.
Condition of the Student
Police have not released specific details about the extent of the boy’s injuries, but confirmed they were classified as minor. Richland County School District One later verified that the child is a student at Alcorn Middle School.
School officials did not release additional information about the student’s condition, citing privacy concerns, but acknowledged awareness of the incident and confirmed coordination with the family.
Police Investigation Details
The Columbia Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit handled the investigation, which included gathering witness statements, reviewing evidence from the scene, and tracking down the suspect vehicle. Officials emphasized that hit-and-run cases involving children are treated with high priority due to the vulnerability of young pedestrians.
Officers have not said whether speed, distraction, or impairment played a role in the collision. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges could be filed if new evidence emerges.
Road Safety Concerns Near Schools
The crash has renewed concerns about pedestrian safety, especially near school routes and residential corridors like Fairfield Road. Many such areas see increased foot traffic during morning and afternoon hours when students are traveling to and from school.
Traffic safety experts stress that drivers are required to remain alert in school zones, reduce speed, and yield to pedestrians at crossings. Leaving the scene of a crash, even when injuries appear minor, can significantly worsen legal consequences.
South Carolina law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop immediately, provide identification, and render reasonable aid to anyone injured. Failure to do so can elevate penalties and result in jail time, fines, and license-related consequences.
Legal Process Ahead
Brown is expected to appear before a judge for bond and future court proceedings. The charges she faces carry potential penalties that may include fines, license restrictions, and possible jail time if convicted.
Court records will determine whether the case proceeds as a misdemeanor or escalates based on further findings from prosecutors. At this stage, police have not disclosed whether Brown has retained legal counsel.
Community Impact
Parents and residents in the Fairfield Road area have expressed concern about traffic behavior and pedestrian safety. Incidents involving children often prompt calls for increased enforcement, improved signage, or traffic-calming measures near schools.
Local authorities encourage anyone who witnesses unsafe driving behavior or has information related to similar incidents to contact law enforcement.
What Happens Next
The investigation continues as the case moves through the legal system. Police say they remain committed to holding drivers accountable and ensuring safer roads for students and families across Columbia.
If you have experience with traffic safety concerns or pedestrian risks in your neighborhood, share your experiences in the comments below.
