The incident, which occurred around 2 a.m. near mile marker 166, has raised serious concerns about roadway safety and the dangers law enforcement officers face while performing their duties.
According to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, South Carolina Highway Patrolman Dennis Ricks was in the process of conducting a traffic stop on I-26. He was outside of his patrol vehicle when he was struck by another vehicle, a moment that could have had devastating consequences. Emergency services responded quickly, and while the extent of Trooper Ricks’s injuries has not yet been disclosed, the incident underscores the inherent risks officers face during roadside stops, especially during nighttime hours.
The driver of the vehicle that struck the trooper was identified as 45-year-old Anthony Aydlette of Hanahan. Authorities say Aydlette was taken into custody at the scene and has been charged with driving under suspension. He is currently being held at the Orangeburg County Detention Center as the investigation continues.
Due to the circumstances of the crash, the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office requested that the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department handle the investigation, ensuring an independent and thorough review of the events leading up to the collision. Investigators will be working to determine the full chain of events, including what factors may have contributed to the incident.
Collisions involving law enforcement officers during traffic stops remain a significant safety concern nationwide. Law enforcement officials once again urge all drivers to follow South Carolina’s “Move Over” law, which requires motorists to change lanes or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles stopped on the roadside. This simple but critical action can save lives and prevent tragedies.
The community is awaiting further updates on Trooper Ricks’s condition and the outcome of the investigation. In the meantime, officials stress the importance of vigilance, caution, and responsible driving at all times — especially when approaching law enforcement officers or first responders working on the road.
This case serves as a stark reminder that inattention or disregard for safety laws can have severe and lasting consequences. As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring accountability, protecting those who serve, and reinforcing the message that roadside safety is a shared responsibility for all drivers.
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