South Congaree Police Chief Suffers Mini Stroke, Crashes Squad Car
COLUMBIA — South Congaree Police Chief Steve Jonas experienced a mini stroke and crashed his squad car into another vehicle on South Beltline Boulevard at approximately 6:15 p.m. on August 27.
According to the S.C. Highway Patrol, Jonas was traveling east when he crossed the center line and collided with an SUV moving in the opposite direction. Both the police chief and the three occupants of the SUV were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Authorities characterized Jonas' medical event as a transient ischemic attack (TIA). “Our thoughts right now are with Chief Jonas and with the family in the other vehicle that was involved,” said South Congaree spokesperson Ashley Hunter.
Jonas has been placed on medical leave during his recovery. Initially, prior to the investigation's conclusion, he was put on administrative leave. The current medical condition of the SUV's occupants and their identities remain unknown.
The incident is under investigation, but no further details regarding the Chief's medical condition have been released.