Hartwell Post Trooper Injured in High-Speed Chase

A Hartwell Post State Patrol Trooper is recovering from injuries he received over the weekend from a high-speed chase.

It happened Sunday around 3p on Starr’s Bridge Road, according to Sgt. Fleming with Post 52.

Fleming tells WLHR News troopers were performing a routine road check when the driver of an approaching pick up truck made a u-turn on Starr’s Bridge to avoid the road check.

He said a pursuit then ensued with Trooper Andrews as the primary pursuer.

Trooper Andrews attempted a PIT maneuver at which time both vehicles became locked, traveled off the shoulder of the road an both vehicles struck a tree.

The driver of the pick up was injured and taken to Piedmont Hospital in Athens.

Trooper Andrews was taken by ambulance to St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital in Lavonia where he was treated for minor injuries and released.

The suspect, whose name has not yet been released was charged with driving under the influence/alcohol and driving on a suspended license.

He was treated and released and taken to the Franklin County Detention Center.