Derrick Gathers, a 40-year-old resident of Augusta, Georgia, has pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm following an incident that resulted in the shooting of a South Carolina Highway Patrol trooper.
According to court statements, on August 16, 2023, Trooper Frazier with the South Carolina Highway Patrol stopped Gathers for speeding on Highway 78 in Bamberg County. After presenting his license and registration, Gathers became the subject of further investigation due to concerns about his driver’s license. When Trooper Frazier returned to speak with him, Gathers produced a firearm and shot the trooper in the face before fleeing the scene. Officers from the Bamberg County Sheriff’s Department were present and returned fire as Gathers drove away.
Law enforcement from multiple agencies located Gathers' vehicle after he crashed during a pursuit in Branchville. The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Department later executed a search warrant on the vehicle and discovered a loaded pistol under the brake pedal. Forensic analysis by SLED matched this weapon to cartridge casings found at the site of the traffic stop.
Gathers has prior felony convictions for third-degree rape and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon from New York State. These convictions prohibit him from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Trooper Lance Corporal Frazier has fully recovered from his injuries sustained during the shooting.
Gathers could face up to 15 years in federal prison along with possible fines up to $250,000, restitution payments, and supervised release following any imprisonment. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted his guilty plea and will determine sentencing after reviewing a report prepared by U.S. Probation Office.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation alongside several local law enforcement agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lamar Fyall is prosecuting the case.
