Three suspects have now been charged with resisting an officer after an incident involving a stolen truck and firearms Saturday.
The Columbus County Sheriff’s Office was searching for 2005 Dodge truck stolen in South Carolina when deputies spotted the suspect vehicle on Hickman Road around 12:30 a.m., according to a press release. Deputies followed the truck to Forest Edge Circle, where they confirmed the registration was that of the reported stolen vehicle.
The truck circled the complex twice, and when deputies attempted as traffic stop, the driver slowed the truck to a roll, and seven people jumped out. Two exited from the front, three from the rear and two from the bed, the report said. The truck stopped after running into a dumpster.
Deputies began chasing the suspects on foot, and observed David Omarion Long running with a rifle. He was taken into custody without incident.
Another deputy approached the vehicle as JaQuavious Bellamy was getting out. Bellamy “lunged” toward a rifle, the report said, but was stopped by the deputy.
Rajon Reaves was caught after a footchase.
Five loaded firearms, including three rifles, were recovered. Two of the weapons were listed as stolen, according to the press release.
Bellamy, 19, of 116 Tram Rd., Whiteville, allegedly reached for a weapon as he was being detained at the vehicle. He was later released on a $1,000 bond, charged with resisting an officer.
Long, 18, of 1309 Clyde Morris Rd., Tabor City, was charged with resisting an officer and o counts of possession of a stolen firearm. He was released on $7,500 bond.
Reaves, 20, of Longs, S.C., was released on a $1,000 secured bond on a single charge of misdemeanor resisting an officer.
The other suspects are still being sought for questioning. The investigation is continuing.
