Oconee County, South Carolina – A 48-year-old semitruck driver, Michael James Akers, was arrested following a multi-county police chase that began at a Walmart on Liberty Highway in Anderson and ended after deputies deployed stop sticks in Oconee County.
Chase Begins at Walmart
The incident started when Anderson Police approached the 18-wheeler after the store requested the truck be removed from the property.
According to the reports, Akers was reportedly asleep in the cab when officers knocked on the door. Upon being approached, he drove off, prompting police to initiate a pursuit.
The chase was handed off to Anderson County deputies, who continued pursuit until Oconee County Sheriff’s Office deputies took over on West Pine Grove Road.
Dangerous Driving Across Multiple Roads
Deputies reported that Akers drove recklessly, ignoring traffic signs and endangering the public:
- Turned onto Highway 59 at the intersection of Highway 243, running over a stop sign and road sign
- Continued onto Highway 182, striking another stop sign and road sign
- Drove through Bratton Road, Fairplay Boulevard, and Doctors Road before stopping where stop sticks were deployed
Arrest and Medical Clearance
Upon stopping, Akers initially refused to exit the truck. Deputies eventually arrested him and transported him to Oconee Memorial Hospital for evaluation before transferring him to the Oconee County Detention Center.
Charges Filed
Oconee County Sheriff’s Office charged Akers with:
- Open container of beer or wine in the truck
- Failing to stop for blue lights
- Reckless driving
Meanwhile, Anderson County Sheriff’s Office charged him with:
- Failing to stop for blue lights
- Reckless driving
Safety Reminder
Authorities remind drivers that:
- Ignoring law enforcement signals can result in serious criminal charges
- Reckless driving in large vehicles is particularly dangerous to other motorists and pedestrians
- Always secure open containers and avoid drinking while driving
Have you ever witnessed a dangerous chase on the roads in your area? Share your experiences and thoughts on traffic safety in the comments below.
