COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. – Two suspects connected to a string of vehicle and property thefts across Beaufort and Colleton Counties were captured Sunday after a dramatic police pursuit and brief manhunt.
According to the Yemassee Police Department, officers attempted to stop a speeding vehicle on Highway 17-A, but the vehicle – which had been reported stolen – fled into Colleton County.
The chase ended on Highway 21 near I-95, when the vehicle stalled and caught fire. Both suspects jumped out and fled on foot.
The driver, identified as 28-year-old Justin Bessinger, was quickly apprehended with assistance from K-9 Rio. The passenger, 29-year-old Emily Higgins, was located shortly afterward by K-9 Deuce following a brief search.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office, had been actively searching for Bessinger and Higgins, who were believed to be involved in multiple vehicle and property thefts throughout the region.
During the manhunt, police advised residents to stay vigilant and avoid approaching the suspects. Authorities also stated that Higgins was wanted in multiple jurisdictions.
In a Facebook post following the arrest, the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office thanked the public for their cooperation, saying:
“Bessinger and Higgins are now in custody. Thank you to the public for your patience and for all of the shares and tips that have been coming in.”
Both suspects remain in custody as the investigation continues.
