Ahmad Jamal Khamees Alhendi, a 28-year-old Jordanian national, has been identified as the suspect behind the bomb threat that caused a dramatic and hours-long shutdown of Interstate 85 near Greenville, South Carolina. The chaos unfolded Thursday during what began as a routine traffic stop but quickly escalated into a high-stakes operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Authorities allege that Alhendi issued a bomb threat while being stopped by South Carolina Transport Police, prompting an emergency response that paralyzed the area. The shutdown caused significant traffic backups near Exit 44 at White Horse Road, stranding countless drivers and disrupting local commerce.
In the immediate aftermath of the bomb threat, a large contingent of law enforcement descended on the scene. Greenville County deputies, the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) bomb squad, and the FBI were mobilized to assess and neutralize the potential danger.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster confirmed the extraordinary measures, stating, “I-85 near mile marker 44 is temporarily closed out of an abundance of caution due to a bomb threat issued during a routine traffic stop this afternoon by SC Transport Police.”
He added, “SCDOT and state law enforcement are on the scene, and normal I-85 traffic will resume once the tractor-trailer is swept and cleared by SLED’s bomb squad.”
The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) reported extensive delays as bomb squads and SWAT teams worked methodically to ensure public safety. A video circulating on social media showed the 18-wheeler at the center of the incident, further fueling public concern.
BREAKING: Police have shut down I-85 in Greenville County, South Carolina, due to a bomb threat involving this 18-wheeler. pic.twitter.com/BUmY6LXSnK — Dapper Detective (@Dapper_Det) January 2, 2025
Following the resolution of the threat, Alhendi was taken into custody and charged with multiple offenses, including breach of peace of a high and aggravated nature, conveying false information regarding a bomb threat, and operating a vehicle without a valid license. His bond was set at $20,238 cash.
However, the implications of the incident extend far beyond the criminal charges. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has placed a detainer on Alhendi, identifying him as a Jordanian national who initially entered the United States legally in 2018. According to ICE, Alhendi violated the terms of his admission, making him subject to deportation proceedings.
Alhendi now faces the possibility of being deported, with a hearing scheduled for August 2026.
The bomb threat has left residents and commuters shaken, highlighting concerns about public safety and the efficacy of immigration enforcement. “It’s terrifying to think someone could disrupt an entire highway and put countless lives at risk,” said one Greenville resident. “We need stronger measures to ensure this doesn’t happen again.”
The incident has also reignited debates about immigration policy and border security. Critics argue that Alhendi’s ability to remain in the U.S. despite violating the terms of his admission reflects systemic weaknesses in the immigration system.
“This is precisely why we need stricter enforcement and monitoring of individuals who overstay their visas or otherwise violate their terms of entry,” said a local lawmaker. “Allowing these gaps to persist jeopardizes the safety of American citizens.”
While Alhendi’s actions represent an isolated incident, they have drawn national attention to the intersection of public safety, immigration policy, and law enforcement preparedness. Some are calling for enhanced cooperation between state and federal agencies to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Law enforcement officials have praised the rapid response and coordination that ensured the incident ended without casualties. However, they acknowledge the need for continued vigilance, particularly in cases where potential threats involve individuals with unclear or compromised immigration status.
As Alhendi awaits his next court date, his case serves as a reminder of the challenges law enforcement faces in maintaining public safety in an increasingly complex environment. For many in South Carolina and beyond, the bomb threat on I-85 will not soon be forgotten.
The road to resolution will involve addressing not only the immediate legal proceedings against Alhendi but also the broader systemic issues his case has brought to light. Whether through stricter immigration enforcement, enhanced public safety measures, or improved interagency coordination, the lessons of this incident must not be ignored.
