The last thing the police in Chester expected to find Sunday evening was someone driving drunk with a child in their truck. But, that’s exactly what they encountered. 49-year old Stephen Dale Shrum of Edgemoor was driving South on US-21 between Fort Lawn and York County Line. The man was charged with DUI after causing a multi-vehicle crash.

He attempted to pass two other cars who were also driving South when he crashed into the car directly in front of him. His 2006 truck then caused someone driving Northbound to hit the second car he tried to pass. A total of 4 cars ended up being involved in the crash.

Shrum was arrested and charged with felony DUI since the accident did caused great bodily injury. He was also charged with child endangerment since he had a minor in the truck with him. He is currently being held in the county jail without bond.

The accident took place near the Catawba River in Chester County. There has been no information released regarding the condition of the other people involved in the crash. However, authorities did confirm that at least 10 people were injured in some capacity.

The police didn’t release the age or identity of the minor that was in the car with Shrum. However, they did confirm that he is facing anywhere from 1 to 22 years in prison. The felony DUI charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 1 year but he could be sentenced to up to 15 years in prison. The child endangerment charge carries an additional 7-8 years.

The victims in the other 3 vehicles will more than likely have a claim for damages against Shrum. If he’s convicted, they’ll be able to use evidence of his conviction in their court cases.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident in South Carolina, contact our office right away.