Officer-Involved Shooting In North Augusta
An officer-involved shooting in North Augusta left the surrounding areas shaken, but thankful for quick law enforcement response.
Around 4:30pm yesterday (December 9th), a call came in to North Augusta Public Safety. Officers quickly responded, and soon after, a police chase ensued. Shortly after, shots were fired on Georgia Avenue.
During the exchange of gunfire in front of Gary’s Hamburgers and Wells Fargo, a North Augusta Public Safety officer was shot. He was quickly transported to the hospital with a gunshot wound to his leg. The wound is not life-threatening.
The streets leading into downtown North Augusta were blocked off and a large law enforcement presence was seen in the area following the police chase. Aiken County and Edgefield County Sheriff’s Offices were quick to respond and assist to get the incident contained.
Multiple videos surfaced online showing a black Dodge truck that officers had pursued. Some reports say there were 4 people in the truck.
Thankfully, North Augusta Department of Public Safety was able to secure the scene and get the incident under control with no other injuries. All suspects were taken into custody or detained. Agents from South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) were on scene soon after to handle the investigation.
No word on what led to the chase that ended in the shootout. From the videos, it appears the main shooter was prepared with multiple weapons and/or ammunition.
UPDATE: The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has charged 42 year old Thomas Airington of Clarks Hill in connection with yesterday’s shootout with law enforcement officers on Georgia Avenue in North Augusta. Airington has been charged with attempted murder and possession of marijuana. One North Augusta Public Safety Officer is undergoing treatment for a non life-threatening leg wound.
Source: WJBF
