URGENT UPDATE: Sade Delesia Nacheyle Nelson, the 2025 Teacher of the Year at St. John’s High School in Charleston, South Carolina, has been charged after allegedly trying to run over her child’s father during a heated custody exchange. The incident occurred on October 18, 2023, in a Walmart parking lot, according to Summerville Police.
Reports indicate that Nelson, 37, is accused of attacking the father of her child and his girlfriend, escalating from a physical confrontation to an attempted vehicular assault. Surveillance footage reportedly captured Nelson speeding toward the man, who narrowly escaped being struck by jumping out of the way.
Officials report that during the altercation, Nelson allegedly punched the man and his girlfriend before attempting to hit him with her vehicle. Police records reveal that the victim opened the passenger door of Nelson’s car to pick up their son when the confrontation began. He stated that he was repeatedly punched, prompting him to flee to avoid further harm.
In response to the serious allegations, Nelson faces multiple charges, including third-degree assault and battery, domestic violence of a highly aggravated nature, and unlawfully placing a child at risk. The Charleston County School District confirmed that Nelson has been placed on administrative leave pending the investigation’s outcome.
Witness accounts and video evidence are critical as the police continue to investigate this alarming situation. Nelson has claimed that the man attacked her and their son, complicating the narrative surrounding the incident.
This shocking event raises significant concerns about the safety of children involved in custody disputes, as well as the conduct of individuals in positions of trust, like educators. The community is watching closely as developments unfold.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as authorities work to clarify the details surrounding the charges against Nelson.