A late-night traffic stop in Columbia, South Carolina, took a dangerous turn when a drunk driver crashed into a sheriff’s patrol car, injuring both a deputy and a civilian.
According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the crash occurred around 2 a.m. near Broad River Road and Zimalcrest Drive, close to the intersection of Interstate 20 and Interstate 26. Deputies had initially stopped a vehicle for making an improper lane change and discovered multiple firearms inside. As officers continued their investigation, a deputy and the passenger of the stopped vehicle stepped aside near a patrol car.
Moments later, 36-year-old Capona Turner, who was allegedly driving under the influence, crashed into the back of the patrol car. The impact forced the vehicle into the deputy and the civilian, causing injuries. Emergency medical personnel arrived quickly, and while the deputy suffered only minor injuries and was cleared at the scene, the civilian was transported to a local hospital in conscious and alert condition. Further details on their condition remain unavailable.
Turner was arrested at the scene and later charged with DUI (.10 but less than .16). She was booked at Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, where her bond was set at $1,224.50, which has since been posted.
Meanwhile, the driver of the initially stopped vehicle was charged with simple possession of marijuana, possession of methamphetamine, and having an open container of alcohol. They were also taken to Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.
Sheriff Leon Lott condemned impaired driving, calling it a “selfish” act that endangers lives. “We are so fortunate this incident wasn’t worse,” he said, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead for safe transportation when consuming alcohol.
Court records show Turner has a history of traffic violations dating back to 2018. She is scheduled to appear in court for her DUI charge on March 18.
