Beaufort County, SC (June 8, 2025) – A deadly two-vehicle crash occurred Saturday evening on SC Highway 170 (Okatie Hwy), approximately 13 miles west of Beaufort, near the intersection with Callawassie Dr. The incident was reported at around 5:25 p.m. and involved a 2008 Ford sedan and a 2022 Ford pickup.
First responders were quick to the scene, providing care to the injured victims. The South Carolina Highway Patrol confirmed that the driver of the Ford sedan was pronounced dead at the scene, while the three passengers in the same vehicle were transported to a hospital in Savannah for treatment. The driver of the Ford pickup, who was the only occupant, was reportedly uninjured.
Preliminary details from the investigation indicate that the Ford pickup was attempting to turn left onto Callawassie Dr from westbound SC-170 when it was struck by the eastbound sedan.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash, and no further information has been released at this time.
Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased and with those injured in this devastating accident.
Intersection Dangers and Rural Highway Risks in South Carolina
Crashes at intersections on high-speed rural highways like SC-170 often result in serious or fatal injuries. When vehicles attempt to turn across lanes of fast-moving traffic, the margin for error is slim, and collisions can occur in an instant—especially when visibility is limited or speeds are not adjusted for conditions.
SC Highway 170 is a critical connector in the Lowcountry region, often used by residents traveling between Beaufort, Bluffton, and surrounding communities. Intersections such as Callawassie Dr can be particularly hazardous without designated turning lanes or traffic signals.
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, intersection-related crashes account for a significant percentage of the state’s annual traffic fatalities. In many cases, contributing factors include failure to yield, driver distraction, or misjudging the speed of oncoming vehicles.
For families involved in such tragic events, the aftermath can involve grief, complex insurance claims, and long-term medical care. Support from legal and medical professionals can help navigate these difficult challenges while ensuring that victims’ rights are protected.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.
