A high-speed police chase that ended with a passenger’s death has resulted in a 25-year prison sentence for a Lancaster County man. Joseph Jemar Delvacio Hinson, 38, was sentenced after pleading guilty to charges stemming from the December 30, 2021, incident that claimed the life of 21-year-old Ny’Darius McKinney.
SLED officers attempted to serve arrest warrants on McKinney, who was a passenger in a vehicle driven by Hinson. Instead of complying, Hinson fled, initiating a chase that began near Edgewater Golf Course and extended onto Bethel Boat Landing Road. In his attempt to escape, Hinson lost control, crashing through 200 feet of wooden fence. The impact sent debris flying, fatally striking McKinney, who was in the passenger seat.
Hinson admitted responsibility for his actions. The 25-year sentence will be served concurrently with a 10-year sentence Hinson was already serving for unrelated drug charges. The case underscores the dangers of high-speed pursuits and the tragic consequences of fleeing from law enforcement. Authorities continue to urge drivers to comply with police orders to prevent future tragedies.
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Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.