Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster reports that Deputy Will Johnson was involved in a head-on collision while on routine patrol in the Jalapa section of Newberry County.

Preliminary information indicates that Deputy Johnson was traveling his assigned patrol area in the Jalapa Section Saturday night at approximately 8:30 when his vehicle was struck head-on by a driver believed to be under the influence. The suspect vehicle also narrowly avoided colliding with another motorist prior to the crash.

Despite the impact, Deputy Johnson was able to safely extricate himself from his patrol vehicle and immediately went to check on the condition of the other driver, demonstrating his continued commitment to public safety even under dangerous circumstances.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol responded to the scene and has assumed responsibility for the investigation. The driver of the other vehicle has been charged with Driving Under the Influence.
Deputy Johnson was transported for medical evaluation, where he was examined, treated, and released by Newberry Health.

Steven Ray Hyler, 46, of Whitmire was charged and is in Newberry County Detention Center.
Sheriff Foster stated, “We are thankful that Deputy Johnson’s injuries were not more serious and proud of his actions following the crash. This incident is a strong reminder of the dangers impaired drivers pose not only to law enforcement but to everyone on the road. We urge all motorists to make responsible decisions and never drive under the influence.”

Further information will be released as it becomes available.