COLUMBIA –The South Carolina Department of Public Safety announces that the trooper involved in the June 2 shooting in York County has been treated and released from the hospital.

Trooper Paul A. Wise, Troop 4/Post B (York Co.) was shot yesterday evening following an attempted traffic stop. Wise was struck by gun fire with a round hitting his bullet-proof vest. SCHP says that Trooper Wise is in good spirits and resting at home with his family.

“I am so thankful that his issued body armor stopped the round, saving his life,” said SCDPS Director Leroy Smith. “As I said during last night’s news briefing, law enforcement is a calling, and this is why we refer to these brave men and women—like Trooper Wise—as heroes. Our law enforcement works day and night to ensure the safety and security of us all.”

The suspect in this case also was struck by gun fire and remains hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is investigating the shooting incident, and charges involving the shooting will be forthcoming from SLED. Once the suspect is released from the hospital, SCHP will charge him separately with failure to stop for a blue light and siren.

The incident began near Mt. Gallant Road and Lexie Lane near Rock Hill around 7:45 p.m. Trooper Paul Wise attempted to stop the driver of a 2009 BMW for no safety belt. The suspect fled and the trooper began a short pursuit.

The suspect traveled south on Mt. Gallant Road, turning onto India Hook Road where he struck the gate at Camp Canaan Campground. The suspect exited the vehicle and began firing at the trooper’s vehicle. The trooper, who was struck by gun fire, also returned fire, striking the suspect. Both were were transported to area hospitals.

The suspect was Willie Bernard Wright, 27, of Gaffney, SC.  

Trooper Wise will be placed on administrative duties once he returns to work, as per department protocol. He has been with the SC Highway Patrol since September 2016.   

SCHP Col. Chris Williamson extended his gratitude to the public and first responders for the outpouring of support for Trooper Wise following this incident. For those wishing to send cards to Trooper Wise, those may be sent to: SCHP Troop Four: Rock Hill BTC: 454 S. Anderson Rd, BTC523, Rock Hill, SC 29730.

Please follow @SCDPS_PIO on Twitter for further developments.

 The South Carolina Department of Public Safety includes the Highway Patrol, State Transport Police, Bureau of Protective Services, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs, Immigration Enforcement Unit and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame. Our mission is to ensure public safety by protecting and serving the people of South Carolina and its visitors.