COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Congaree Police Chief Steve Jonas was placed on administrative leave following a two-vehicle crash on Beltline Boulevard on Aug. 27, according to town officials.
Jonas was taken to a local hospital after the incident but was released later that day. The occupants of the second vehicle were also hospitalized; their medical conditions remain unknown.The S.C. Highway Patrol is investigating the crash, but details have not yet been released. Jonas, who has served with the South Congaree Police Department for over two decades, was appointed chief last August.
The leave is a standard protocol due to the ongoing investigation. Lt. James Marchant will oversee the department during Jonas' absence. The town has a population of approximately 2,400, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data.