ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — What began as a welfare check in Orangeburg County turned into a standoff Wednesday, according to Sheriff Leroy Ravenell.

Deputies were called to a residence on the 4000 block of Bamberg Highway for a welfare check when they say the situation escalated. Investigators said the resident inside the home refused to cooperate, leading to a standoff.

“We’re taking every precaution to bring this to a positive conclusion,” Ravenell said. “This was just a welfare check, and now it’s been made into something more.”

Authorities urged motorists to use alternate routes to avoid congestion in the area while deputies continue working the scene.

Hours later, the Orangeburg County Sheriff's Department posted an update to Facebook, say, "The incident off Bamberg Highway was be

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