Suspect Shot and Killed in Police Car

9/22/03

SOUTH CONGAREE, S.C. – A South Congaree police officer shot and killed a man in his patrol car Saturday during a struggle.

Officer Jason Pruitt had apprehended Leavy Costell Rish, 44, who was wanted on outstanding warrants. He placed him in the back of the patrol car with his feet and hands shackled.

Rish, took off his seat belt at some point and maneuvered until his hands were in front of him. He complained about the lack of air and Pruitt opened the window that separates the front and back seats.

Rish came through the window and tried to grab Pruitt’s gun from his belt holster, threatening to kill the officer. Pruitt was shot in the right hand.

Pruitt knocked the gun away and when Rish went for a second gun, Pruitt shot him.

Pruitt called for backup. Rish died at the scene.

Rish had a history of convictions for resisting arrest and assaulting a police officer.

Pruitt underwent surgery for his injury and is recovering in the hospital.

Backup news staff writer Erin Harty