August 9, 2025

Two Arrested After Violent Car Chase in Laurens County

News Summary

Authorities in Laurens County have apprehended two individuals following a high-speed car chase that involved gunfire directed at deputies. The chase began when a deputy attempted to stop a vehicle running a stop sign. The driver, 20-year-old Braxton Mitchell, and a 16-year-old passenger engaged in reckless driving, leading to multiple charges against both. The vehicle was confirmed stolen, as was the firearm used during the incident. This event sheds light on ongoing issues of vehicle theft and public safety in the area.

Laurens County, SC – Authorities have arrested two individuals following a violent car chase that included shots fired at deputies on October 7, 2025. The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the apprehensions, which occurred after a high-speed pursuit commenced when a deputy noticed a vehicle violating traffic laws.

The incident began around 9:40 p.m. when a deputy observed a driver run a stop sign at the intersection of Highway 14 and Hunts Bridge Road. The driver, later identified as 20-year-old Braxton Mitchell of Lyman, was speeding dangerously, nearly colliding with another vehicle and making illegal passes on a double yellow line. In an effort to evade the law enforcement officers, Mitchell failed to stop for blue lights, which prompted the deputies to initiate a pursuit.

The chase escalated onto Interstate 385 and into Highway 14, with deputies tracking the vehicle as it continued to ignore commands to pull over. During the chase, a passenger in the vehicle, a 16-year-old from Simpsonville, fired shots at the pursuing deputy. Items were also thrown from the vehicle during the course of the chase, making the situation even more dangerous.

Both individuals were ultimately apprehended near Narnie Road shortly after the pursuit. The vehicle involved was confirmed to be stolen during a previous carjacking incident in Greenville. Additionally, the firearm used during the incident was identified as stolen from Spartanburg.

The 16-year-old passenger has been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm among other related charges. As for Braxton Mitchell, he faces multiple charges linked to the incident, including those stemming from the reckless endangerment of others during the chase.

The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office is currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the carjacking, the high-speed chase, and the actions taken by both the driver and the passenger. Authorities are working to understand the full extent of the event and any other potential motives or accomplices.

This incident highlights the ongoing issues of vehicle theft and reckless driving in the area, sparking discussions on public safety measures and law enforcement responses to such high-risk situations.

The sheriff’s office continues to encourage community members to report any information related to the incident or suspicious activities in order to enhance safety and security within the community.