Bluffton Man Arrested After Disturbing Incident Involving Gunshots and Hit-and-Run
In a turn of events that has left the charming town of Bluffton buzzing with chatter, an 18-year-old man was taken into custody on December 11th following an alarming series of events that began with a hit-and-run incident involving a pedestrian.
Multiple Charges in Connection to Hit-and-Run
The man, identified as Jeffrey Ryan, faces serious charges including Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature. According to a release from the Bluffton Police Department, officers arrived on the scene at the intersection of Wooden Wheel Lane and Oak Barrel Boulevard to find a wounded pedestrian who had sustained minor injuries. Fortunately, the victim received treatment right there on the spot.
Bluffton Police Community Relations Manager, Eydie Moody, shared that the investigation stretched for several hours as officers delved deep into video footage and obtained accounts from various witnesses. What investigators discovered during their probing was enough to send chills down anyone’s spine—a volley of gunshots had been fired during the chaotic scene, although it remains unclear if Ryan, or a group of juveniles with him, pulled the triggers.
Unraveling the Series of Events
To further complicate matters, Moody revealed during a press briefing on December 17 that the hit-and-run incident was intertwined with an attempted armed robbery that had taken place just before the pedestrian was hit. Now, that puts a whole new spin on things, doesn’t it?
Three male juveniles have been identified as players in this attempted robbery and are set to face Family Court after their actions raised eyebrows not just in the community but also among law enforcement.
Gunshots Fired, But Miraculously No Injuries
Moody clarified that the gunfire was directed at an individual but, thankfully, did not result in any injuries. This is certainly a relief for residents who may have been rattled by the sound of bullets ringing out in their usually peaceful neighborhood. The investigation has now confirmed that there are no outstanding suspects and that there is no ongoing threat to public safety. That’s the good news that everyone has been waiting to hear!
Community Encouraged to Share Information
Authorities are still keen on piecing together all the details surrounding this unnerving incident. If anyone has additional information, the Bluffton Police encourage you to contact Beaufort County Non-Emergency Dispatch at (843) 524-2777 to speak directly with officers who are on the case.
As the dust settles in Bluffton, one thing is for sure: the community is holding its breath, hoping that this sort of distressing event becomes an isolated incident rather than a sign of things to come. Residents are reminded to stay vigilant and look out for one another!
