Spartanburg County, SC – A 34-year-old man was arrested following a multi-county chase Saturday night that involved deputies from Spartanburg, Laurens, and Newberry counties, authorities confirmed. The incident began at a QuikTrip on Asheville Highway and escalated into a dangerous pursuit that left one deputy hospitalized.
Pursuit Begins Amid Mental Health Incident
The Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office responded to the convenience store around 9 p.m. after reports of a man reportedly experiencing a mental health episode. The suspect, identified as William Waters, 34, allegedly accessed a deputy patrol vehicle at 9:45 p.m.
Deputies attempted to stop Waters, but he fled the scene, striking a deputy with the open driver’s door and briefly dragging the officer. Fortunately, the officer was not seriously injured.
High-Speed Chase Across Three Counties
The pursuit spanned Spartanburg, Laurens, and Newberry counties and concluded near mile marker 60 on Interstate 26, where Waters surrendered without further incident.
During the chase, a deputy was involved in a crash near mile marker 53, requiring extrication and air transport to Spartanburg Regional Medical Center. Officials said the deputy is expected to make a full recovery. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Waters was booked into the Spartanburg County Detention Center early Sunday and faces multiple charges, including:
- Grand larceny equal to or greater than $10,000
- Failure to stop for blue lights
- Refusing a DUI test
Records indicate Waters previously faced a DUI charge in 2014.
During a bond hearing, Waters repeatedly interrupted the judge and was removed from the courtroom. The judge ruled Waters will be held in contempt of court for 15 days and fined $500, leaving the bond amount pending.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities said the incident remains under investigation, including details of the collision involving the deputy and the circumstances that led to the pursuit.
How do you think law enforcement should handle pursuits involving suspects with mental health issues? Share your thoughts, experiences, or community safety suggestions in the comments below.
