Deputy Sheriff James Brian Collins

James Brian Collins

Deputy James Collins was killed when the patrol car he was riding in struck a tree during a pursuit.

He was assisting the chief of a neighboring agency on a call when they were notified of the pursuit. Deputy Collins rode with the chief and they joined the pursuit.

The suspect drove for approximately 45 miles before he crashed into thick brush on a windy road. The patrol car Deputy Collins was riding in also went off the road in the same area and struck a tree on the passenger side. Deputy Collins was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

The suspect was apprehended at the scene. On February 24, 2003, he was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to 10 to 13 years in prison. He was paroled on July 30, 2013.

Deputy Collins had served with the Bladen County Sheriff's Department for 18 months. He is survived by his wife and two young children.