News Summary
A bomb threat led to the closure of I-85 near Greenville, SC, causing significant traffic delays. A 28-year-old man made the threat during a traffic stop, prompting a swift response from law enforcement, including the SLED bomb squad and the FBI. Fortunately, no explosives were found, and the interstate was reopened later that evening. The driver now faces multiple charges for his actions, highlighting the need for safety and vigilance on the roads.
Bomb Threat Shuts Down I-85 Near Greenville, SC
In the bustling city of Greenville, South Carolina, a shocking incident unfolded yesterday that had everyone on their toes. A 28-year-old man, identified as Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi from Oak Lawn, Illinois, found himself in a serious pickle after a traffic stop led to a bomb threat situation.
The Traffic Stop That Led to Chaos
The drama began around 2:45 p.m. when a South Carolina Transport Police officer spotted a tractor-trailer missing its license plate. Little did anyone know that this simple traffic violation would escalate into a major emergency. When the officer approached the truck, Alhendi made a startling claim about an explosive device lurking inside the vehicle.
Quick Actions for Safety
In response to the bomb threat, law enforcement swung into action, and all lanes of I-85 were swiftly closed in both directions to protect the public. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) bomb squad and the FBI were called to the scene to investigate the driver’s alarming statement.
Traffic Jams and Detour Dilemmas
The closure had a domino effect on traffic, creating significant backups from Exit 42 (I-185) to Exit 46 (Augusta Road). Commuters faced long delays, with many drivers seeking alternate routes as detours were posted to help them avoid the affected area. As the hours ticked by, traffic was at a standstill, and those trying to get home found themselves caught up in quite an unplanned adventure.
The Investigation in Focus
As the investigation unfolded, law enforcement took every precaution to ensure public safety. The SLED bomb squad meticulously scoured the tractor-trailer for any signs of explosives, while the FBI assisted in assessing the situation. Fortunately, after thorough checks, no explosive devices were found, and the tension began to ease.
Incident Comes to a Close
At around 7:40 p.m., relief swept over the area as authorities announced that the interstate was safe to reopen. Motorists could finally resume their journeys, although some were certainly feeling the residual effects of the traffic chaos caused by the incident.
Charges Filed Against the Driver
Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi now faces severe charges for his actions. He’s been hit with breaches of peace of a high and aggravated nature, conveying false information about a bomb threat, and operating or permitting an unregistered vehicle. The tractor-trailer he was driving was registered to Globe Transportation, a company based in Illinois, but that didn’t save him from the legal ramifications of his actions.
A Statement from the Governor
In the wake of the incident, Governor Henry McMaster took to social media to provide updates about the situation. He emphasized that the closure was necessary, carried out out of an abundance of caution for public safety.
Moving Forward
While the day may have started as a normal commute for many, it quickly turned into an extraordinary series of events that reminded everyone of the importance of safety and vigilance on the roads. Greenville, with its friendly charm, faced a day of unexpected drama, but fortunately, the community remained unharmed in the aftermath.
As traffic returns to normal and law enforcement looks into the details of this incident, we can only hope for safer journeys ahead for everyone on I-85!
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HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
