Witnesses report a frightening encounter involving a high-speed chase on Highway 501

HORRY COUNTY, SC (WMBF) – The search is underway for the person behind a dangerous chase on Highway 501 that narrowly missed dozens of motorists Monday night.

Horry County police said the chase began along Highway 378 and onto Highway 501 around 6:30 p.m. The vehicle was reported stolen and when police attempted to pull the driver over, she refused to stop, according to police.

Police deployed stop sticks, stopping the pursuit near Carolina Forest Boulevard, but the suspect fled.

Two siblings were sitting in their car picking up and delivering DoorDash orders when the crime scene unfolded before them.

“We just see this Dodge Charger and it’s just speeding through the breakdown lane,” Kaydence Massotti said. “Then we see two police officers just racing around, then we see seven more, and then five more.”

The siblings said they had to stop for emergency relief. While they remained safe, the siblings were able to capture video of officers lining the street.

“I was nervous about even driving the car. I just parked. I thought I wouldn’t even drive around. I’m not going anywhere,” Dylan Massotti said. “It’s a lot. That was very reckless and very, very, not good.”

The Massottis said they were shocked when the pursuit stopped and the driver ran. They caught officers searching the area with a K9 and asking the suspect to come down.

“We tried using DoorDash. If he put lotion on someone. You know what I’m saying. Luckily he only got into a ditch and no one else. They (the officers) started screaming and said, “We’re letting the dog go.” You’re going to get bitten. You will be bitten.’ But he just kept running!” said Dylan Massotti.

Kaydence Massotti said because she was a young firefighter, she also worried about passersby at the nearby restaurants and stores where the suspect escaped.

“I saw all these families and these little children and I was really worried that these children and the families would be traumatized if this guy went to the Chilis,” Kaydence Massotti said.

The two now offer some simple advice to protect others.

“Don’t run away from the police, I think. They’re going to get you eventually,” Dylan Massotti said.

“Make smarter decisions,” said Kaydence Massotti.

According to HCPD, one person is in custody but has not yet been charged, while the second person is still on the run.

Stay with WMBF News for updates.

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