Clemson Driver Fired Upon With Automatic Weapon After Honking at Another Motorist on US 76, Police Say

CLEMSON, S.C. — A driver traveling along US 76 in Clemson was shot at with what police described as a machine gun after honking at another motorist who had cut him off in traffic. Authorities say the incident happened late Wednesday morning and ended with the suspect being apprehended minutes later by deputies in Anderson County.

According to Clemson police, the confrontation began around 11:45 a.m. when a gray sedan abruptly cut off another driver heading north on the highway. The victim honked his horn, prompting the sedan to pull over into the median before re-entering traffic.

Suspect Opened Fire at Traffic Light, Police Say

Investigators say the situation escalated when both vehicles approached the intersection at Old Stone Church Road.
As the victim came to a stop at the light, the suspect allegedly pulled up behind him, leaned out, and opened fire, striking the vehicle multiple times.

Images from the scene show bullet damage to the windshield and driver’s-side window, illustrating how close the shots came to hitting the victim.
Police say the firearm used was believed to be a fully automatic weapon, intensifying the severity of the encounter.

Victim Escapes Unharmed and Provides Key Information

Despite the barrage of gunfire, the victim was not injured, officers confirmed.
Authorities say he kept his composure long enough to note the suspect’s license plate number and a detailed description of the sedan before quickly meeting with responding officers.

That information proved crucial, as Clemson police immediately alerted neighboring agencies across the Upstate.

Suspect Captured Within 15 Minutes in Anderson County

With the suspect fleeing the scene, Anderson County deputies located the gray sedan just 15 minutes later on SC 187 near Interstate 85.
Deputies initiated a traffic stop and detained the individual without further incident.

Clemson police say additional details about the suspect, charges, and the recovered weapon will be released once the investigation is complete.

Officials Emphasize Dangers of Escalating Road Rage

Law enforcement across the Upstate have issued recurring warnings about road rage incidents, noting a steady rise in confrontations becoming violent or involving firearms.
Authorities say this case highlights how quickly a minor traffic dispute can turn life-threatening.

Residents who witness aggressive driving or feel threatened on the road are urged to call 911 immediately rather than engaging directly.

If you have comments or concerns about escalating road rage on South Carolina highways, share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.