On Thursday afternoon, a routine traffic stop on Interstate 85 near Greenville, South Carolina, took a dangerous turn when the driver of a tractor-trailer claimed there was an explosive device aboard his vehicle. The incident, which began at approximately 2:45 p.m., led to the closure of all lanes near mile marker 44 at White Horse Road, causing significant traffic disruptions for over four hours.
The stop was initiated by the South Carolina State Transport Police after noticing the tractor-trailer was missing a license plate. What was expected to be a simple enforcement action quickly escalated when the driver, later identified as Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi, informed officers of a supposed bomb within the vehicle. This alarming assertion triggered an immediate and extensive response from law enforcement.
Greenville County Sheriff's Office SWAT and Bomb Squad teams were among the first to respond, joining forces with the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (DPS), the FBI, and the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) also played a crucial role in managing the resulting traffic chaos and ensuring the safety of commuters.
The scene was secured, and a thorough search of the vehicle was conducted. The highway was closed to protect the public, reflecting the gravity of the potential threat. Local authorities worked meticulously, employing bomb-sniffing dogs and other specialized equipment to ascertain the validity of the bomb threat. By 7:40 p.m., after an exhaustive investigation, it was confirmed that no explosive device was present, and the highway was reopened to traffic, signaling the end of the immediate crisis.
Alhendi was arrested and charged with several offenses, including conveying false information regarding a bomb threat, breach of peace of a high and aggravated nature, and operating an unregistered vehicle. He appeared in court the following day, where he was issued a surety bond amounting to $20,238 for his various charges.
South Carolina Senator Karl Allen, representing Senate District 7, where the incident occurred, commended the swift and coordinated response of the involved agencies. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a wide security perimeter to ensure the safety of local residents. Senator Allen's statement highlighted the ongoing need for vigilance and cooperation among different levels of law enforcement to manage such threats effectively.
This event underscores the unpredictable nature of routine police work and the readiness of emergency services to respond to potential threats. It also serves as a stark reminder of how quickly everyday situations can escalate into significant public safety issues, requiring not only the immediate response of local law enforcement but also the integration of state and federal resources.
The incident, while ultimately devoid of real danger, demanded a robust response that showcased the preparedness of South Carolina's law enforcement community. It also highlighted the potential for disruption and the need for public patience and understanding during such events. As the community returns to normalcy, the incident remains a poignant example of the unseen threats law enforcement must be prepared to confront daily.
