Howard James Jr. (Image: SC Dept. of Public Safety)
Orangeburg, SC (WLTX) A South Carolina Highway Patrol trooper was struck by a vehicle while he was investigating a collision Friday afternoon on 1-26 in Orangeburg at the 142 mile marker.
TFC Howard F. James Jr., 27 was investigating a collision around 5:05pm when a vehicle veered off the roadway striking James' patrol vehicle, which in turn struck James.
UPDATE: Trooper James still remains hospitalized in ICU and is in stable conditon, however he is responsive and talking. He has sustained multiple injuries in the collision.
Highway Patrol Col Mike Oliver said, "We are praying for the James family and the Highway Patrol will be by their side as they go through this time."
James has served with the Highway Patrol since 2010.
Leroy Smith, director of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety said, "This is the second incident in recent weeks with a trooper seriously injured. This underscores the very dangerous nature of the job our officers have to do."