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Bomb Threat Causes Major I-85 Traffic Chaos

News Summary

A routine traffic stop escalated into a full-blown bomb scare on I-85, causing significant closures and backups. The incident involved Ahmad Alhendi claiming there was an explosive device in his vehicle. Authorities swiftly responded, closing the highway for hours until the all-clear was given. Alhendi faced multiple charges, including conveying false information about a bomb threat. The event served as a reminder of the importance of public vigilance and the effective response of law enforcement in emergencies.

Ahmad Alhendi’s Bomb Threat Leads to Major I-85 Closure

Greenville, SC – What started as a routine traffic stop turned into a daylong ordeal for drivers on Interstate 85 when a bomb scare prompted authorities to close down the highway. It all went down on Thursday, January 2, 2025, just after 2:45 p.m., when a 28-year-old man from Oak Lawn, Illinois, by the name of Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi found himself in a sticky situation.

The Traffic Stop

It looks like Ahmad’s luck ran out when a South Carolina State Transport Police officer pulled him over for a rather mundane issue – a missing license plate. But what would follow was anything but ordinary. During this traffic stop, Alhendi upped the ante in the most alarming way, claiming there was an explosive device in the tractor-trailer he was driving. Naturally, this raised immediate red flags for the officer.

Chaos on I-85

Authorities jumped into action, swiftly closing all six lanes of I-85 in both directions near Exit 44 (White Horse Road). Chaos ensued for commuters as traffic came to a standstill, with backups extending for several miles. Cars and trucks were diverted, and frustrations were running high as many were left to wonder when they’d be able to continue their journeys.

Here Come the Authorities

The situation escalated quickly as various agencies joined forces to address the potential threat. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the local bomb squad were called in, along with the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. Everyone was on high alert as they took the bomb threat seriously, operating with an abundance of caution to ensure public safety. At first, the incident was thought to be a hazardous materials spill, only to be reclassified as a full-blown bomb threat.

A Long Wait

Hours ticked by as investigators worked diligently to assess the situation. Meanwhile, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) kept the public updated, reporting detours from Exit 42 (I-185) to Exit 46 (Augusta Road). Following what must have felt like an eternity, officials confirmed that no explosives were found, allowing I-85 to reopen at approximately 7:40 p.m. What a relief for all those stuck in traffic!

Charges Filed

As for Ahmad Alhendi, his day took a turn for the worse. He was charged with several offenses, including breach of peace of high and aggravated nature, conveying false information about a bomb threat, and operating an unregistered vehicle. His bond was set at an eye-watering $20,238. Additionally, it should be noted that Alhendi had an active arrest warrant for pending removal proceedings issued by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The Aftermath

In the wake of this bizarre incident, Governor Henry McMaster addressed the situation on social media, emphasizing that the swift actions taken were purely out of caution for the well-being of the public. It was a day filled with tension, traffic snarls, and a little bit of chaos. But thankfully, authorities were able to resolve the situation without incident, reminding everyone of the importance of staying vigilant.

As life returns to normal on I-85, drivers can be thankful for the hard work of law enforcement and emergency services who always act quickly in challenging situations. Just another day in the life! Stay safe out there, commuters!