SC Sheriff: Suspect in fatal hit-and-run in country illegally
By Adam O'Daniel · The Herald
Updated 07/01/08 - 6:49 AM |

The man authorities say was involved in a fatal hit-and-run accident that killed a 15-year-old Rock Hill boy has been living in the United States illegally, York County Sheriff’s Office officials said Monday.

Authorities on Saturday charged Santiago D. Solis, 30, of 1715 Heather Square in Rock Hill with leaving the scene of an accident involving a death and driving without a license. He was arrested Saturday after the S.C. Highway Patrol had been searching for a dark-colored Ford truck with an extended cab, tinted windows and chrome wheels. Troopers said Solis owns a 1999 Ford F-150 pickup.

Solis was determined to be an illegal immigrant Monday after the York County Sheriff’s Office processed his identity through a federal system known as the 287(g) program, said Sheriff’s Office Maj. Robbie Hudgins. Hudgins said Solis is a Mexican national, living in the United State illegally.

Officials believe Solis was driving on Adnah Church Road on Friday afternoon when 15-year-old Christopher Lanier of 651 Winding Branch Road rode a borrowed 2006 Yamaha dirt bike across the center line, where he collided with the truck. Lanier was run over by the truck, which fled the scene, troopers said. He died from multiple injuries suffered in the crash.

Other details about the crash are under investigation.

York County Sheriff Bruce Bryant said Solis will be held at the York County Detention Center for deportation until his current charges are settled. “He’ll have to deal with the current charges against him first,â€