Greenwood woman takes plea deal after van attack

Dara Masterson pleaded guilty to 2nd degree battery and DWI charges for running over her husband with a van.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:05pm

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A 34-year-old Greenwood, South Carolina woman named Dara Masterson has taken a plea deal after being arrested in September 2025 for running over her husband with a van. Masterson pleaded guilty to 2nd degree battery and DWI charges and was given a 10-year suspended sentence and one day in jail. The victim was airlifted to Little Rock in critical condition but survived the incident.

Why it matters

Domestic violence incidents involving vehicles are a growing concern, as they can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. This case highlights the importance of resources and support for victims of intimate partner violence, as well as the challenges in the criminal justice system's response to these complex situations.

The details

According to court paperwork, Dara Masterson went to her home in September 2025 to get some of her belongings. An argument ensued with her husband, and Masterson said she felt threatened as she was leaving. She then backed up her vehicle and ran over her husband. The victim was airlifted to a hospital in Little Rock and was in critical condition, but survived the attack.

  • In September 2025, Masterson was arrested on charges of domestic battery and DWI.
  • In February 2026, Masterson took a plea deal and pleaded guilty to 2nd degree battery and DWI charges.

The players

Dara Masterson

A 34-year-old woman from Greenwood, South Carolina who pleaded guilty to 2nd degree battery and DWI charges for running over her husband with a van.

Masterson's husband

The victim who was run over by Masterson and airlifted to a hospital in critical condition, but survived the attack.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater support and resources for victims of domestic violence, as well as the challenges in the criminal justice system's response to these complex situations. It underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of intimate partner violence and ensuring victims have access to the help they need.