SC state trooper critically injured while responding to traffic stop, deputies say

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - A South Carolina state trooper has been injured after being hit in an overnight crash while conducting a traffic stop.

Major Rene Williams of the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office reports the crash happened at around 2 a.m. on Sunday on I-26 eastbound mile marker 166.

Trooper Dennis Ricks was conducting a traffic stop before being hit by a large box truck passing by.

Orangeburg Deputies were dispatched to the scene shortly after. Trooper Ricks was transported in an ambulance to Trident, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Officials have not yet released his condition at this time.

The driver of the box truck, identified as 45-year-old Anthony Aydlette, was arrested and charged with Driving Under Suspension.

Major Williams said the Lexington County Reconstruction Unit will be handling the investigation since the South Carolina Highway Patrol doesn’t investigate incidents involving their troopers.

Lex Co. reconstruction unit handling investigation because Orangeburg Co. does not have a reconstruction unit, and Lexington County was the closest one.

Nonprofit Serve & Connect has announced they are holding a fundraiser to support Ricks’ family.

It is in partnership with several law enforcement organizations.

100 percent of the funds will be donated directly to Ricks’ family.

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