The Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce gathered on Wednesday to recognize the tireless efforts of local, state, and federal agencies who responded to an intentional hit-and-run on Sullivan’s Island that left one adult and two children injured. The incident, which occurred on May 1, prompted an hours-long manhunt that culminated in the arrest of the suspect, Justin Collin Adams.
The Hit-and-Run Incident
The incident took place outside Sunrise Presbyterian Church School on Sullivan’s Island, where Adams deliberately struck three individuals with his car before fleeing the scene. Law enforcement quickly mobilized, with more than 100 officers from over 25 agencies participating in the search for Adams. The search included door-to-door efforts and aerial support, with law enforcement working together to locate the suspect.
A Swift and Coordinated Response
The response to the hit-and-run was described as a collaborative effort, with law enforcement from multiple jurisdictions coming together to ensure the safety of the community. Isle of Palms Mayor Phillip Pounds expressed his admiration for the unified response, saying, “It’s incredible to see the response in the Lowcountry: when something happens, somewhere it’s all-hands-on-deck.”
Sullivan’s Island Deputy Chief Monty Anders praised the coordination, noting, “To watch the entire law enforcement community, not just the Charleston area, but the state and the federal elements coming together for one common goal… was incredible.”
The Arrest of Justin Collin Adams
After an extensive search, Adams was found hiding in a boat near a dock across the street from where the hit-and-run occurred. Law enforcement utilized the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office’s new helicopter, Air-1, to locate him. Adams was taken into custody without incident.
Adams now faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, after deliberately running his car into the group of children. The arrest brought relief to the community and served as a testament to the effectiveness of local law enforcement collaboration.
Honoring First Responders
In recognition of the efforts that led to Adams’s capture, the Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce honored the agencies involved. The ceremony took place in June, a month with significant meaning for first responders in the Lowcountry. June marks the 18th anniversary of the Charleston 9 firefighters tragedy and the 10th anniversary of the Emanuel 9 shooting.
Rebecca Imholz, Executive Director of the Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce, expressed her gratitude to the first responders, saying, “They do put their life on the line for our community.” The Chamber’s event underscored the importance of recognizing and thanking those who serve and protect the public.
The arrest of Justin Collin Adams and the honoring of law enforcement for their dedication to public safety highlights the critical role of collaboration and training in emergency responses. As the community reflects on past tragedies and the bravery of first responders, the coordinated efforts in the hit-and-run case stand as a reminder of the commitment to protecting the Lowcountry’s residents.
