Authorities have arrested a 36-year-old man from South Carolina on charges of attempted murder after he allegedly drove his car at two children and a teacher in a shocking incident at a church playground.
Justin Collin Adams was taken into custody on Thursday night following the alarming events at Sunrise Presbyterian Church in Sullivan Island, where he reportedly targeted two boys, aged 10 and 12, and an adult victim, as detailed in an arrest affidavit.
An emotional mother, whose 10-year-old son was involved, spoke in court on Friday, expressing her hope that no other parent would have to receive such distressing news.
“They’ve been saved by God’s grace. I’m here to seek justice for all my children,” she stated.
The incident apparently escalated when Adams threatened his mother with a knife before heading to the playground. Eyewitness accounts indicate that he drove aggressively toward the children, hitting the teacher and causing her to land on the car’s hood before falling to the ground, according to the affidavit.
Adams then purportedly drove over the sidewalk and attacked the younger boy, pinning him beneath the vehicle. After abandoning the car while wielding a knife, he fled, sparking a large manhunt involving multiple agencies. Hours later, he was found hiding in a boat near the crime scene.
The 12-year-old and the adult victim were taken to a local hospital for care, while the younger boy received treatment at the scene and was later released to his parents. Reports reveal the teacher remains hospitalized with serious injuries.
During the court proceedings, Adams’ defense attorney mentioned that he voluntarily admitted himself to a mental health facility two weeks prior, citing a depression diagnosis and a prescription for Lexapro.
Now facing multiple charges, including three counts of attempted murder and first-degree assault and battery, Adams is not currently in custody at Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center in North Charleston and is scheduled to appear in court again on June 13th.
