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Warrants issued in fatal hit-and-run involving tractor-trailer

CHESTER COUNTY, S.C. — The South Carolina Highway Patrol said it has identified the tractor-trailer driver involved in a deadly hit-and-run in Chester County this week.

Troopers said Flora Ellenburg, 49, of Salisbury died when the tractor-trailer rear-ended the SUV she was riding in on Interstate 77. The big rig did not stop.

The crash happened in the northbound lanes at mile marker 59.

Troopers said Chris Pringle, 36, of Orangeburg lost control of a Ford Explorer after the 18-wheeler struck him from behind. He was wearing a seat belt and was taken to Carolinas Medical Center.

Ellenburg died at the scene. She was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from the SUV.

Police identified the driver of the big rig as Stevie Wolfe Breland, 57, of Charleston.

The victim's daughter said Ellenburg was a loving mother and grandmother.

She is relieved that a suspect was identified and grateful for tips that led to Breland.

The victim's brother, Billy Woodie, had high praise for the South Carolina Highway Patrol including First Sgt. Jeff Wade who he said worked tirelessly to make sure they identified the person responsible.

Ellenburg's funeral is Saturday.

Troopers said they received a stream of tips that led them to Breland, who police said was driving the purple 18-wheeler at the time.

Breland is currently in custody in Charleston County on unrelated charges.

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