POLICE: Former Leland officer involved in high speed chase

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A Former Leland police officer is accused of leading a multi-state police chase.

The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office says around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday deputies were trying to serve warrants on former Leland Police officer Hank Smith, 40, of Supply.

A spokeswoman says Smith fled from deputies, which started a chase. Multiple agencies including BSCO pursued Smith, who was armed with a gun and firing shots at officers, the Sheriff’s Office said.

Investigators say the chase continued into Horry County and ended on SC Highway 31, where Smith was taken into custody by South Carolina officials.

Horry County Police say Smith is in an area hospital and will be charged when he is released.

Multiple charges are pending both from BCSO and the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Smith will be held in SC until he is extradited to Brunswick County.

None of the pursuing officers were hurt during the incident.