William Shannon Coston Obituary, Death; – A man has lost his life after leading law enforcement on a pursuit through Surf City.
As reported by the Surf City Police Department, a patrol sergeant attempted to stop a driver suspected of operating a vehicle while impaired at 1:58 a.m. on July 21.
“While conducting routine patrol, the Surf City patrol sergeant noticed a white Chevrolet Silverado being driven erratically, which included multiple lane violations and a failure to maintain control on NC Highway 50,” the department indicated in a press release. “Due to the observed violations and safety concerns, the sergeant activated emergency lights and sirens to initiate a traffic stop.”
Surf City PD claims that the driver, identified as William Shannon Coston, did not yield, although there was no indication that he would attempt to flee at high speed.
Coston proceeded along NC 50, Shepards Road, and onto U.S. Highway 17, continuing to drive in an erratic manner.
Surf City PD requested assistance from the Pender County Sheriff’s Office. Officers witnessed Coston suddenly accelerate and drive away at a high speed. Due to departmental policy, Surf City police disengaged from the pursuit.
A Pender County Deputy took over the chase when Coston was seen traveling eastbound on NC Highway 210 at 2:04 a.m.
The department reports that the vehicle crashed at 2:05 a.m. near Valhalla Way.
Coston was declared dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel, according to Surf City PD.
“Open containers of alcohol were found inside the vehicle, and evidence at the scene indicated that the crash was a result of impaired driving and loss of vehicle control,” stated Surf City PD.
The department has indicated that the NC State Highway Patrol is conducting a formal investigation into the incident.
“This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the fatal consequences of impaired driving,” remarked Chief Voorhees. “We appreciate our law enforcement and emergency service partners for their coordinated response and professionalism during this challenging incident.” There is no ongoing threat to the public, and the
