GREENVILLE, South Carolina -- A Greenville County Sheriff's deputy was killed during a struggle with a suspect during a traffic stop Tuesday afternoon.
Deputies initiated a traffic stop on northbound on I-85 near White Horse Road just before 3 p.m. when at least one of the occupants of the vehicle engaged deputies in a physical altercation and a struggle ensued, according to a news release.
During the struggle, the suspect’s vehicle accelerated and ultimately collided with a tractor trailer. While the exact sequence of events is unclear at this time, officials say that another deputy’s patrol car also collided with the suspect’s vehicle. Three deputies were transported to the hospital along with two individuals from the suspect vehicle.
Master Deputy Conley Jumper was severely injured and was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The other two deputies are expected to recover as are the occupants from the suspect vehicle.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is working alongside the South Carolina Highway Patrol in investigating the incident in its entirety.
Jumper was a 28-year veteran of the Greenville County Sheriff's Office and most recently served with the Interdiction Team where he received numerous accolades, including multiple distinguished service awards and the prestigious Russ Sorrow Award. Officials said that he would be posthumously promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
"Conley Jumper was a man of integrity and passion. When I say passion, I mean the man was as dedicated to the job as they come. He was larger than life, both literally and figuratively. At over 6’4” he was a gentle giant who always wore a contagious smile," Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis said in a statement. "Jumper was an officer who embodied the true essence of a public servant. He had more certifications and instructed more classes than anyone can count and that’s because he always strived to be the best deputy he could be. He was a tireless worker and loving friend and he had a heart of gold. He will be missed dearly by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him."
Jumper is survived by his wife, Sarah, and his daughter, Kat.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
