Yemassee, August 25, 2025
News Summary
Justin Bessinger and Emily Higgins were apprehended by law enforcement following a high-speed chase that originated from a stolen vehicle incident. The pursuit began on Highway 17-A and concluded on Highway 21 after the suspects tried to escape on foot when their vehicle caught fire. Thanks to K-9 units and public cooperation, both suspects are now in custody, highlighting the community’s role in enhancing safety in the area.
Yemassee, South Carolina – Two Suspects Captured After Vehicle Pursuit
Two individuals, Justin Bessinger, 28, and Emily Higgins, 29, have been apprehended following a police pursuit connected to a series of vehicle and property thefts across Beaufort and Colleton Counties. This significant development occurred on Sunday afternoon, September 14, 2025, when law enforcement officials initiated a traffic stop on a stolen vehicle operating at high speed on Highway 17-A.
The pursuit began when Yemassee Police observed the speeding vehicle, which had been reported stolen. When officers attempted to conduct the traffic stop, the suspects fled into nearby Colleton County, prompting a chase that ended dramatically when the vehicle stalled on Highway 21 near Interstate 95 and subsequently caught fire.
Both Bessinger and Higgins exited the vehicle before it was engulfed in flames and attempted to flee on foot. Quick response from law enforcement included the deployment of K-9 units; K-9 Rio successfully located Bessinger, while his accomplice, Higgins, was tracked down with the assistance of K-9 Deuce after a brief manhunt.
Authorities had issued a warning to the public during the active search, advising them to avoid approaching the suspects. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that both individuals are now in custody.
Following their capture, the sheriff’s office expressed appreciation for the community’s cooperation, particularly regarding the tips and support provided throughout the investigation and pursuit. This collaboration between law enforcement and the public underscores the community’s commitment to enhancing safety and addressing crime in the area.
Background Context on the Suspects’ Criminal Activities
Bessinger and Higgins have been linked to multiple theft incidents in the region since August 13, 2025. Local authorities have been working diligently to track these suspects based on their involvement in various vehicle and property thefts. The swift police response in this incident reflects ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities and keep the community safe.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
The successful capture of the suspects is expected to reassure residents who may have been unsettled by recent thefts in their areas. Law enforcement agencies often emphasize the importance of public vigilance and the effective sharing of information to combat crime. The cooperation between citizens and police helps ensure a rapid response during such emergencies, fostering a safer environment for everyone.
Conclusion
With both suspects in custody, authorities can now focus on further investigations related to the thefts they were linked to. The case highlights the continued commitment of law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety and address criminal activities in the communities they serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What led to the pursuit of Justin Bessinger and Emily Higgins?
The pursuit started when Yemassee Police attempted to stop a speeding vehicle that was reported stolen. - Where did the pursuit end?
The pursuit concluded on Highway 21 near Interstate 95 after the vehicle stalled and caught fire. - How were the suspects apprehended?
Both suspects fled on foot after exiting the burning vehicle, but they were captured with the assistance of K-9 units. - What charges are likely to be faced by the suspects?
While specific charges are not stated, they are likely to face multiple charges related to vehicular theft and possibly evading law enforcement. - How did the public assist in capturing the suspects?
The Colleton County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for the tips and information provided by the public during the ongoing investigation.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspects | Justin Bessinger, 28; Emily Higgins, 29 |
| Charges | Vehicle and property theft, fleeing law enforcement |
| Pursuit Start | Sunday afternoon on Highway 17-A |
| Pursuit End | Highway 21 near I-95 |
| Outcome | Both suspects captured with K-9 assistance |
| Community Involvement | Public provided tips leading to their capture |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Protesters March in Chicago Against Immigration Raids
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Two Suspects Captured After Vehicle Pursuit
- Count on 2: Authorities Searching for Woman Who Fled After Vehicle Chase
- MSN: Colleton County Deputies Search for Persons of Interest in Theft Cases
- Wikipedia: Crime in the United States
- Google Search: Colleton County Theft News
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
