A routine traffic stop along Interstate 85 near Greenville, South Carolina, turned into a high-stakes operation on Thursday afternoon, as law enforcement faced a bomb threat that led to hours of road closures, heavy traffic delays, and widespread public concern. Authorities later identified the suspect as Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi, whose actions disrupted a vital transportation route and prompted an extensive response from multiple agencies, including local law enforcement, state investigators, and federal authorities.
The incident unfolded just before 3 p.m. and brought significant attention to the need for vigilance, rapid coordination, and public safety preparedness in responding to potential threats.
Traffic Stop Leads to Threatening Claim
At approximately 2:45 p.m., officers with the South Carolina State Transport Police pulled over a commercial tractor-trailer near mile marker 44 on I-85, citing the absence of a license plate as the reason for the stop. The officer conducting the routine inspection noticed inconsistencies in the driver’s behavior, which raised immediate suspicions.
As the stop progressed, the driver, later identified as 32-year-old Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi, reportedly told the officer that there was an explosive device inside the vehicle. This statement instantly escalated the situation.
Emergency Response and Road Closures
Recognizing the gravity of the claim, authorities wasted no time in mobilizing emergency resources. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (DPS) alerted multiple agencies, including the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team and Bomb Squad, the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT).
To ensure public safety, law enforcement took the precautionary step of closing all lanes of I-85 in both directions. The closure extended from Exit 44 near White Horse Road, resulting in a traffic backup that lasted for more than four hours, as officers worked to secure the scene and investigate the claim.
Motorists on one of South Carolina’s busiest highways faced delays stretching for miles. Traffic detours rerouted vehicles through secondary roads, further straining local routes. Some drivers reported being stuck on the interstate for hours, unable to exit the gridlocked highway.
Bomb Threat Assessment and Investigation
The investigation unfolded methodically, as bomb technicians and K-9 units conducted a thorough search of the vehicle to determine the veracity of the threat. Officers established a wide perimeter around the scene, ensuring that no members of the public or first responders were placed in unnecessary danger.
By 7:40 p.m., law enforcement officials confirmed that no explosives were found inside the truck. The vehicle was cleared, the area was deemed safe, and the interstate reopened to traffic shortly afterward.
Despite the lack of an actual explosive device, authorities made it clear that Alhendi’s actions would carry significant consequences.
Arrest and Charges Filed Against Alhendi
Following the investigation, Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi was taken into custody by the South Carolina State Transport Police. Alhendi faces multiple charges, including:
- Conveying false information regarding a bomb threat
- Breach of peace of a high and aggravated nature
- Operating an unregistered vehicle
On Friday morning, Alhendi appeared before a judge for a bond hearing. The court set a total surety bond of $20,238 for all charges.
Law Enforcement Praises Coordinated Response
Law enforcement officials and public safety agencies have commended the swift and coordinated response to the incident. Representatives from the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, SLED, the FBI, and SCDOT worked in unison to address the threat, ensuring the safety of the public while minimizing disruption as much as possible.
Sheriff’s spokesperson Lieutenant James Wright stated, “The cooperation among agencies played a critical role in resolving this situation without harm to the public or law enforcement personnel. We are grateful for the professionalism and dedication shown by all involved.”
South Carolina Senator Karl Allen Issues Statement
Senator Karl Allen, who represents Senate District 7 in South Carolina, issued a statement regarding the incident, emphasizing public safety and the importance of maintaining vigilance during such emergencies.
“The state agencies involved include SCDOT, SLED, and State Transport Police with support from the Greenville County Sheriff’s SWAT/Bomb Squad and the FBI,” Allen said. “I have asked that, due to this being an active scene, we ensure a wide perimeter to protect all citizens who live in Senate District 7. Until further information is available, we will continue to monitor this situation with the SCHP.”
Senator Allen also expressed relief that no one was harmed during the incident and pledged ongoing support for law enforcement efforts to address threats to public safety.
Community Impact and Public Reaction
The incident has left South Carolina residents shaken but grateful for the prompt actions of law enforcement. Commuters and local businesses in the Greenville area bore the brunt of the traffic disruptions, with some business owners reporting a drop in customer activity during the road closure.
“Being stuck on I-85 for hours was frustrating, but I understand the importance of safety first,” said Lisa Thompson, a local commuter who was caught in the traffic jam. “I’m glad they took it seriously, even if it turned out to be a false alarm.”
Others praised the professionalism of law enforcement in handling a potentially volatile situation. “The coordination between agencies was impressive,” noted David Marshall, a resident of Greenville. “It’s reassuring to see how quickly they responded to protect the public.”
A Reminder of Vigilance
Although no explosive device was found, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential threats. Officials emphasized that even false threats can create significant disruptions and pose challenges for emergency responders.
South Carolina DPS Director Amanda Turner stated, “We take all threats seriously, and this situation underscores the importance of thorough investigation and coordinated response. The safety of our citizens is our top priority.”
Legal and Security Implications
Alhendi’s actions not only disrupted transportation and created widespread anxiety but also highlighted the legal consequences of conveying false information regarding threats of violence. If convicted, Alhendi could face significant penalties, including jail time and fines.
The incident also raises questions about the broader implications of ensuring security on public highways and the need for stricter regulations and enforcement regarding commercial vehicles.
Looking Ahead
As life returns to normal on I-85, South Carolina authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The incident has also prompted discussions about improving communication and traffic management during emergencies to minimize disruptions in the future.
For now, the community is focused on moving forward, with gratitude for the swift resolution of a potentially dangerous situation and a renewed appreciation for the dedicated men and women who work tirelessly to ensure public safety.
As for Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi, his legal journey is just beginning, and the consequences of his actions will likely serve as a cautionary tale about the serious repercussions of making false threats.
