AIKEN, Aiken County, S.C., Oct. 16, 2026 — A 46-year-old Aiken man died after a two-vehicle crash Wednesday night, October 14, on Wagener Road, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol. The collision happened near State Park Road around 9:30 p.m., troopers said.
The Aiken County Coroner's Office identified the man as Kenneth Newton. He was reportedly driving a 2021 Toyota Highlander that collided with a 2019 Kia Sorento, according to troopers.
Newton was ejected from the Highlander during the crash, the coroner's office said. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 10:34 p.m. The condition of anyone involved in the Kia has not been released.
The coroner's office said it will release the identity of the Kia's driver once relatives are notified. An autopsy for Newton is scheduled in Newberry.
The crash remains under investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol and the Aiken County Coroner's Office.
We are deeply sorry for the loss suffered by the victim's family.
More on Crashes in Aiken, SC
This fatal crash happened on Wagener Road in Aiken, SC. We cover crashes across Aiken County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Aiken County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors make a crash more likely to be fatal?
High speed, the angle of impact, and whether occupants are ejected all play a role. A crash where someone is thrown from the vehicle, as reported here, carries a much higher risk of death than one where occupants stay inside.
How does speed affect crash survivability?
Higher speeds mean more force has to be absorbed in a shorter distance, which increases the chance of severe injury even when safety systems work as designed.
Why does seat belt use matter so much?
A seat belt keeps an occupant inside the vehicle during a crash and spreads crash forces across the stronger parts of the body. Ejection, like what the coroner's office described in this case, sharply raises the odds of fatal injury.
What should families do after a fatal crash?
Contact the coroner's office or investigating agency for official updates, request a copy of the crash report once it's available, and keep a record of any communication with investigators or insurers.
What to Do After a Fatal Crash in Aiken, SC
Losing someone in a crash leaves a family with little time to think clearly, but a few steps can help. Reach out to the coroner's office for confirmed details. Remember to ask the South Carolina Highway Patrol how to obtain the official crash report once it's completed. If you were nearby or involved in a related incident, seek a medical check even if you feel fine, since some injuries take hours to show symptoms. Make sure to keep any paperwork from police, medical providers, or the coroner's office together, as you'll likely need it in the weeks ahead.
