| Alleged Shooter of Highway Patrolman Identified |
| (Kershaw County) - Richland County
authorities say 31-year-old Eric Marlon Maradiaga of Elgin shot a
highway trooper three times during a traffic stop in Kershaw County
off highway 34 on Springvale Road. Department of Public Safety spokesman Sid Gaulden says Sergeant James Sinkler was shot twice in the chest and once in the hand by Maradiaga. That's when Gaulden says another trooper arrived on the scene and shot the alleged shooter four times. Gaulden says Maradiaga was taken to Richland Memorial. Kershaw County Sheriff Steve McCaskill says he underwent surgery and his condition is unknown at this time. Authorities say it all started in Richland County when the suspect got into an argument with his estranged girlfriend and stabbed her in the hand. Officials at Richland Sheriff's Department say that's when he took a gun that was in her home and stole her car. McCaskill says Maradiaga will be charged with assault and battery with intent to kill and possession of a firearm during a felony. Sinkler was taken to a Kershaw hospital where he is reported to be in good condition. Sinkler told News 19 today he was fine and recovering after the surgery on his hand early this morning. Here more from Sinkler, his family, and the condition of Maradiaga tonight on News 19 at 11:00. |