Collision involving EMS unit temporarily closes IOP Connector

Nov 07, 2023

by: Chase Laudenslager

Posted: Apr 7, 2023 / 06:29 PM EDT

Updated: Apr 7, 2023 / 11:40 PM EDT

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) – The Isle of Palms (IOP) Connector was temporarily closed Friday evening following a collision.

According to Charleston County Dispatch, the incident happened near Riviera Drive shortly before 6:00 p.m. The connector was closed until around 8:00 p.m.

The Mount Pleasant Police Department said that the incident involved an EMS unit.

Several agencies responded earlier in the evening to a reported shooting on the island.

It is unclear whether the collision was related to the shooting response.

Emergency vehicles had to navigate heavy traffic to get to the scene.

Isle of Palms City Councilman Blair Hahn said that Friday night's events highlighted the need for an emergency lane on the IOP connector:

"This is an unfortunate event and my heart goes out to all involved and their families. However, I must focus on our first responders and those that were injured. Our lack of an emergency lane frustrated the ability of both EMS and Mount Pleasant police to respond quickly. Hopefully, our emergency lane will be restored as quickly as it was taken from us."

The collision came amid talks about the configuration of the IOP Connector, which many say needs dedicated emergency lanes.

Editor's note: This story is breaking and will be updated.

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