GPD Statement on Tanner's Big Orange Incident

Protesters Gather Against Racist Comments by Tanner's Big Orange Owner

Eyewitnesses report around 1 PM at Monday's protest at Tanner's Big Orange, a tan/grey GMC SUV turned off of Pleasantburg Drive and into the Tanner's parking lot, attempting to ram into the protesters.

One eyewitness who stepped in front of the vehicle in an attempt to protect other protesters said the driver, a white male, was smiling as he attempted to run over the protesters.

Police officers made the driver leave.

The color, make, model of the car, and license plate number were all caught on film, as well as the driver's face.

The GPD is investigating the incident and released the below statement this morning.  

Released by the Greenville Police Department:
In reference to the incident that took place at Tanner’s Big Orange on June 8, Greenville Police investigators are currently working to review all of the evidence in this case.
They are attempting to identify and contact additional witnesses who were on scene to give statements and to provide any video evidence they may have.
Due to the large number of people who were on scene, it is imperative for us to gather as much information as possible to ensure a thorough investigation is completed.
We appreciate your patience as we continue to evaluate evidence that will allow us to analyze this incident from every possible angle.  
If you have any information regarding the incident please contact Captain G. K. Smith at 864-467-5313. 
Interim Chief Howie Thompson Gives Statements About Incident at Tanner's Big Orange Protest

This afternoon Greenville Police Department Interim Chief Howie Thompson provided a few statements about the investigation.

"There is no rush to judgement.  There is no rush to make a charge.  We want to make the right charges.  We want to be professional in the handling and give everybody their right to come in a be a witness to share information that they witnessed on the scene," Chief Thompson said.  

At a press conference earlier today, local activists demanded an arrest by the end of the day.

Chief Thompson said that they have interviews scheduled with witnesses for today, tomorrow , and even Friday.