Charleston County, September 23, 2025
News Summary
Charleston County law enforcement arrested Savannah Ard and Zavion Woodward following a high-speed chase that ended in a crash. The suspects face serious charges including possession of marijuana and a weapon by a felon. The pursuit began when officers attempted to stop their vehicle for speeding. After crashing into a pillar, both attempted to flee but were apprehended, with significant quantities of marijuana found in the vehicle.
Charleston County law enforcement arrested two individuals following a high-speed chase that ended in a crash on Friday, September 19. The suspects, identified as Savannah Ard, 19, and Zavion Woodward, 23, face multiple charges stemming from the incident.
Savannah Ard has been charged with failure to stop for blue lights and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Zavion Woodward faces similar charges, including possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon. The duo was involved in a police pursuit that began when a deputy from the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop their grey Nissan Altima for driving at 75 mph in a 55 mph zone near the intersection of Highway 17 and Highway 41.
Details of the Incident
The initial traffic stop occurred at a Circle K gas station, but the driver fled upon noticing the police vehicle’s emergency lights. The chase escalated, with speeds reaching up to 80 mph through residential areas, specifically on North Pinckney Street, where the speed limit was only 25 mph. The pursuit came to an end when the vehicle crashed into a brick pillar while attempting to turn onto Thomas Pinckney Drive.
Following the crash, three occupants emerged from the vehicle, attempting to flee on foot. However, only the two males, Ard and Woodward, were subsequently apprehended. A search of the vehicle revealed approximately 26.7 grams of marijuana, while an AR-15 pistol was discovered discarded on the roadside.
Previous Criminal Records
Notably, Savannah Ard had a prior arrest for failing to stop for blue lights on August 26 in Georgetown County. Meanwhile, Zavion Woodward was on probation for an accessory to murder conviction from 2023 at the time of this incident. The other passengers in the vehicle were released without facing charges.
Law Enforcement Response
This incident highlights ongoing concerns surrounding high-speed chases and the possession of illegal substances and weapons. Authorities continue to monitor and address such situations within the community as they work to ensure public safety.
Background Context
The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office remains vigilant in conducting traffic stops aimed at ensuring compliance with speed limits and other traffic laws. The consequences of high-speed pursuits can be severe, not only for those involved but also for innocent bystanders. Law enforcement agencies emphasize the importance of following traffic regulations to prevent dangerous situations like this from arising.
FAQ
What happened in Charleston County on September 19?
Two individuals were arrested following a high-speed chase that ended in a crash, involving a grey Nissan Altima that was initially stopped for speeding.
Who are the individuals arrested?
The suspects are Savannah Ard, 19, and Zavion Woodward, 23.
What charges do the suspects face?
Savannah Ard is charged with failure to stop for blue lights and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Zavion Woodward faces charges of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.
What led to the police chase?
The chase began when a deputy attempted to stop the suspects’ vehicle for traveling 75 mph in a 55 mph zone.
What was the outcome of the chase?
The chase concluded when the vehicle crashed into a brick pillar. Two suspects attempted to flee on foot, but only the two males were detained.
What items were found in the vehicle?
Approximately 26.7 grams of marijuana were found inside the vehicle, and an AR-15 pistol was discovered discarded on the road.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | September 19 |
| Location | Charleston County |
| Suspects | Savannah Ard, 19 and Zavion Woodward, 23 |
| Charges | Possession with intent to distribute marijuana, Failure to stop for blue lights, Possession of a weapon by a convicted felon |
| Vehicle Speed | 75 mph in a 55 mph zone |
| Crash Details | Crashed into a brick pillar |
| Marijuana Seized | Approximately 26.7 grams |
| Weapon Discarded | AR-15 pistol found on the road |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Live 5 News
- WYFF 4
- Count on 2 News
- Live 5 News
- Wikipedia: High-speed chase
- Google Search: Charleston County Sheriff’s Office
- Google Scholar: High-speed pursuit police
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Law
- Google News: Charleston County arrests
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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