Two Deputies Shot During Traffic Stop

LEE COUNTY, S.C. (WOLO) – We’re learning more about the man accused of firing on two deputies in Lee County. The suspect is identified as Yahchanan Reames. We’re told the 52-year-old is facing a number of charges, including attempted murder. The sheriff’s office says two of its deputies were conducting a routine traffic stop near Bishopville. It happened Thursday afternoon along Highway 441 near Spring Hill Road. Sergeant Leroy Durant and Corporal Shante Demary claim they smelled marijuana as they walked up to the car, and that’s when Reames reportedly shot at them. The sheriff’s office says the men returned fire and then a struggle ensued. Both deputies were hit during that fight…one in the stomach and the other in the leg. They were taken to a hospital in Columbia with non life-threatening injuries, but Sheriff Daniel Simon says it could have been worse. He credits bullet-proof vests with saving their lives, which were purchased recently. Sheriff Simon says the suspect, Reames, was also injured in the incident. He sustained a gunshot wound to the arm. Now, Reames is no stranger to the law. Sheriff Simon says deputies had come in contact with Reames at his home Wednesday, but he would not go into further detail. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has been brought in to investigate.