A deadly crash on I-20 in Richland County early Sunday morning has left one person dead and another in custody. Authorities say the crash occurred around 2:30 a.m. in the eastbound lanes near mile marker 75.
Incident Details
According to Master Trooper Brandon Bolt with the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the victim, who was identified as a person putting gas in a 2002 Lexus sedan that had become disabled on the shoulder of the highway, was struck by a 2021 Ford van. The van veered off the road, hitting both the person and the vehicle, which had one passenger inside.
Suspect Flees the Scene
After the collision, the driver of the van fled the scene but was involved in another crash before being taken into custody. Authorities identified the driver as 42-year-old William Gunter of Columbia.
Charges and Arrest
Gunter was arrested and charged with felony counts of leaving the scene of a collision involving death and driving under the influence resulting in death. He is also facing additional charges of leaving the scene of a collision with property damage and simple possession of marijuana.
Both Gunter and the passenger in the Lexus were taken to a hospital for medical treatment. The identity of the deceased victim has not been released.
Ongoing Investigation
The crash remains under investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Authorities are working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
