UPDATE 6:30 a.m. – Schools in Constituent District 9 will be closed Thursday as multiple law enforcement agencies search for a wanted shooting suspect. People who live around Mary Ann Point Road are asked to use caution and/or shelter in place during the search.
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JOHNS ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD) – A deputy with the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office was shot Wednesday night as authorities search for a wanted suspect on Johns Island.
The deputy is conscious, alert, and undergoing testing at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), according to Amber Allen, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office.
That deputy was later identified as Master Deputy James Gilbreath, who has been with the sheriff’s office for six years. “He was part of our SWAT’s tactical team when he was shot in the head,” said Allen.
Gilbreath remains at MUSC Thursday morning where he is under evaluation.
Officials with the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office say the public should stay away from Mary Ann Point Road and residents should stay indoors and shelter in place.
Deputies initially responded to the area of Mary Ann Point Road and Chisolm Road around noon Wednesday for a shooting incident.
The first gunshot victim was taken to the Medical University of South Carolina for treatment. Their condition is unknown. Deputies said a vehicle was also struck.
Authorities have been actively searching for the suspect, 38-year-old Ernest Robert Burbage, since around lunchtime.
Burbage is described as a white male with green eyes and brown hair. He is 5’07” and 130 lbs.
Officials say Burbage is on foot and is considered armed and dangerous.
Deputies said residents in the area should remain vigilant of strangers on their property. If Burbage is seen, you are asked to contact the Charleston County Consolidated Dispatch Center by calling 9-1-1.
The Charleston Police Department, North Charleston Police Department and SWAT are assisting the sheriff’s office in this investigation. We’ve also learned the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is en route.
