IRMO, S.C. (WJBF) – Irmo Police Chief Bobby Dale provided additional details regarding an incident that days later resulted in the death of a North Augusta man.
On Sunday, June 22nd, at approximately 02:00 a.m. officers were dispatched to the 50 block of Old Well Road for a possible altercation in a vehicle. As officers arrived and attempted to make contact, the suspect, identified as Byron Jackson, drove away.
A short chase ensued, officers were not able to confirm if there was another person in the vehicle. The chase ended when the Jackson drove over some wood pallets near a creek, disabling the vehicle.
Officers Parker and Baker approached the vehicle giving the suspect verbal commands to comply.
Authorities say Jackson continued to struggle with officers landing everyone down a creek about 20 feet down a ravine.
Officer Baker deployed his taser to assist Parker in gaining control and place the suspect in handcuffs.
Lexington County deputies arrived and assisted in pulling the suspect out of the creek. EMS then transported Jackson to the hospital.
Days later, Wednesday, June 25th, Jackson died in the hospital.
Due to him being in custody, SLED was called to investigate.
At this time, Parker and Baker were placed on administrative leave pending SLED’s investigation.
“I want to express my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jackson,” said Chief Dale “on behalf of our entire department.” “We will continue to cooperate fully with SLED’s investigation to ensure every question is answered and every action is reviewed.”
