Sumter County, SC (December 16, 2024) – A tragic multi-vehicle collision occurred early Sunday morning, claiming the life of a Midlands woman and leaving another person hospitalized, according to South Carolina officials. The accident took place around 2 a.m. at the intersection of U.S. 378/Broad Street and S.C. 261/South Kings Highway, near Shaw Air Force Base.
Sumter County Coroner Robbie Baker identified the deceased as Monica Wright, a 48-year-old Columbia resident. Wright succumbed to her injuries at the scene of the crash. Details surrounding the cause of the accident remain under investigation by local authorities.
Another individual involved in the collision sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. No updates on their condition have been released at this time.
Officials are continuing to investigate the circumstances leading to the crash. It is unclear at this time what factors contributed to the collision, such as speed, weather, or other conditions at the intersection.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Monica Wright during this challenging time, and we extend our hopes for a full recovery to the injured individual.
Intersection Safety in South Carolina
Intersections like U.S. 378 and S.C. 261 are high-risk areas for accidents, especially during late-night and early-morning hours when visibility and reaction times can be impaired. Factors such as speeding, failure to yield, and distracted driving often contribute to collisions at such intersections.
South Carolina has implemented numerous safety initiatives to address intersection-related accidents, including improved signage, lighting, and enforcement of traffic laws. However, drivers must exercise caution, especially in high-traffic or complex intersections, to reduce the risk of accidents.
For those affected by traffic accidents, seeking medical attention, reporting the incident to authorities, and documenting the scene are critical steps. Families of victims may also consult legal professionals to explore options for pursuing justice and compensation.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports. If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance and support.