1 adult, 2 juveniles struck by vehicle on Sullivan’s Island; Suspect in custody

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD) – Authorities arrested a man accused of striking multiple people with a car outside a Sullivan’s Island church and leaving the scene.

Justin Collin Adams was taken into custody without incident after he was found hiding in a boat near a dock across the street from where the hit-and-run crash happened.

Sgt. Matt Storen with the Isle of Palms Police Department said the suspect hit at least three people – an adult and two children – near Sunrise Presbyterian Church and fled the scene.

The adult and one child were taken to a hospital for treatment, while the other child was treated at the scene and released to a parent. Sgt. Storen said in an update Thursday afternoon that he had spoken with EMS and the hospital, and the two were stable.

A warning to shelter-in-place was issued for the island as authorities searched for the suspect they believed to be armed and dangerous. Police said he was last seen on foot with a knife.

The suspect is described as a white, heavyset male, balding with facial hair, wearing a red or burgundy shirt and black shorts.

Sullivan’s Island PD released an image and the name of the suspect, Justin Collin Adams. Adams was spotted by a police sergeant who was in a Charleston County Aviation Unit helicopter.

Multiple agencies made up a “quick response team” and went door-to-door searching each home and easily accessible areas like sheds, trailers, boats, and campers. They also searched every vehicle leaving the island.

“I do want to say to the residents, please be wary, please stay inside your house. If you see somebody, do not approach them – call 911,” said Sullivan’s Island Police Chief Glenn Meadows during an afternoon press conference.

Chief Meadows said the car entered the church property, which also serves as a daycare, and struck pedestrians and ran off.

Sullivan’s Island Police Department has asked the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office to handle both the criminal and crime scene investigation.