Lancaster County deputies return fire, striking suspect after domestic disturbance

LANCASTER COUNTY, S.C. — Lancaster County deputies shot a 33-year-old man who opened fire on them as they responded to a domestic disturbance inside a townhome Friday night, authorities said.

Joshua James Hendricks was visiting his 34-year-old ex-girlfriend at her home at 1022 Eagles Nest Lane where her two-year-old son and her mother also reside.

A domestic disturbance ensued and Hendricks, who was armed with a handgun, assaulted his ex-girlfriend.

Joshua James Hendricks Joshua James Hendricks (WSOC)

The victim locked him out of the house, and he shot through the front door and into the home. He got back inside the townhome and the fight continued.

“It’s a real quiet neighborhood, so this was kind of shocking this was going on,” said neighbor David Armstrong.

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Shortly after 10 p.m., 911 dispatchers got a call from someone who could hear shots being fired at the residence.

Deputies got to the townhome and the ex-girlfriend, her son and mother were able to slip out of the home unharmed.

“There were six cars blocking it and people with police vests," Armstrong said. "I heard there (were) gunshots.”

Hendricks shot at the deputies, who returned fire.

The suspect was shot, and paramedics tended to him.

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Hendricks was conscious and alert after he was shot in his extremities, the sheriff said.

His injuries were not life-threatening.

Hendricks was released from the hospital on Monday and charged with kidnapping, domestic violence first-degree, pointing and presenting a firearm (three counts), and unlawful neglect of a child. He is also charged with four counts of attempted murder for firing his handgun at deputies.

“I really hope everyone’s alright," said Armstrong.

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is investigating the case.