FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 10, 2001
CONTACT: SID GAULDEN, 803-896-8755

COLUMBIA MAN CHARGED IN STATE HOUSE GROUNDS COLLISION

COLUMBIA - The South Carolina Department of Public Safety has arrested a 72-year-old Columbia man in connection with a collision on the State House grounds that damaged the African-American Monument.

Howard McMath of 6225 Hale Street has been charged with driving under the influence and carrying a concealed weapon following the collision that occurred Dec. 9 around 10:30 p.m.

McMath, an African-American, was arrested and transported to the hospital immediately following the collision and then taken to the Richland County Detention Center. A loaded pistol was found on McMath.

An investigation of the collision indicated that McMath drove south on Main Street, crossed Gervais Street and entered the State House grounds on the right side of the state Christmas tree and Confederate Monument. The driver turned left before hitting the steps, ran over a bench and then proceeded around the State House on the walkway before striking a corner of the African-American Monument. Damage to the monument was limited to the rear of the monument.

Editor’s Note: For information concerning damage estimates to the monument, please contact the Budget and Control Board.

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