Watch: Deputy Speaks Out After Shots Fired at Patrol Car
Columbia , S.C. (WOLO) — A Richland County deputy survived a hail of bullets Saturday night. Deputy Christopher Bagby was responding to a domestic disturbance Saturday when investigators say a man with an extensive criminal history opened fire.
Officials say the suspect, Arkeem Breeland fired at least 7 shots at Deputy Bagby. Sheriff Leon Lott said the incident started on Friday, when Breeland’s parents filed a report against him claiming he was threatening them and they feared for their life. On Saturday, Breeland showed up at their home trying to kick the door down.
Deputy Bagby was the first to respond to the scene.
“You never get used to being shot at,” said Deputy Bagby.
Deputy Bagby recalled responding to the domestic disturbance call Saturday night on Camrose Court.
“Luckily we were right around the corner, what we turned into it’s a small culs de sac full of houses, as soon as we turned the corner that’s when he engaged us,” explained Bagby.
Deputy Bagby said upon arriving at the scene, he found Breeland outside his parents home. Before getting out of his patrol car, Bagby said Breeland started shooting and fired at least 7 shots that struck the patrol car windshield and wheel well.
“It was a shock because we knew from the dispatch he was possibly armed and he was trying to get into his parents house but I wasn’t expecting to be standing in the driveway and engaging,” said Bagby.
Deputy Bagby did not return fire, instead he called for back-up to help secure a perimeter to ultimately apprehend Breeland who fled into the woods.
“We had one thing that was going for us that night and it was the cold,” said Sheriff Leon Lott. “Our deputies were dressed for the cold, Breeland wasn’t dressed for the cold.”
According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, Breeland is no stranger to law enforcement. Sheriff Lott said Breeland was released from prison roughly 2 weeks ago on separate charges and has an extensive criminal record.
“He’s back doing the same thing he went to prison for and that’s using violence and firearms,” said Sheriff Lott.
Breeland is now facing several charges, including attempted murder.
