A Columbia man, Clive Campbell, returned from a holiday to find his 2022 Nissan Pathfinder repossessed from the Columbia Metropolitan Airport. Despite having a certificate of title showing no liens, his car was seized by West Columbia Recovery & Towing Company on behalf of Navy Federal Credit Union. Campbell filed a lawsuit on Jan. 27, 2026, alleging unlawful repossession and seeking damages, including the release of his vehicle without towing and storage fees.

The lawsuit raises questions about the airport's policies on vehicle repossessions and the verification processes of towing companies and financial institutions. Campbell's case highlights potential issues in the coordination between airport authorities, towing companies, and credit unions. This incident underscores the need for clear and transparent procedures to prevent such incidents, which could affect consumer trust and legal precedents in similar cases.

Legal experts expect this case to set a precedent for handling vehicle repossession disputes, especially in airports and public parking facilities. The outcome could influence how credit unions and towing companies verify ownership and liens. Investors should watch for any regulatory changes or industry guidelines that may emerge from this lawsuit, as they could impact operational practices and liability concerns across the industry.