Fairfield County, SC (February 21, 2026) – One person died Friday afternoon following a five-vehicle crash on US-21 near Smith Lane in Fairfield County.
The collision happened around noon on February 20. According to reports, five vehicles were involved: a 2007 Ford F-150, a 2025 Kia Sportage, a 2018 Lexus SUV, a 2008 Chevrolet Suburban, and a 2019 Hino 338 truck.
Officials said the Ford F-150, Kia Sportage, and Lexus SUV were traveling south on US-21. The Chevrolet Suburban and the Hino truck were heading north. Investigators stated that the Suburban stopped for traffic, and the Hino truck traveling behind it crossed the center line. The truck sideswiped the Ford F-150, struck the Kia Sportage head-on, then hit the Lexus SUV. The Lexus then collided with the Suburban. The Hino truck left the roadway, struck several mailboxes, and overturned.
The driver of the Kia Sportage suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the victim’s family and friends.
Why Multi-Vehicle Crashes Often Happen on Two-Lane Highways Like US-21
Two-lane highways can become dangerous when traffic slows unexpectedly. When one vehicle stops for traffic, drivers behind it must react quickly. If a large truck fails to slow in time, it may cross the center line to avoid a rear-end collision, which can create a chain reaction.
Head-on impacts are especially severe because the force of two moving vehicles combines at the point of contact. When multiple vehicles are close together, a single mistake can lead to several collisions in seconds. Larger commercial trucks also require longer stopping distances and more space to maneuver.
Roadways like US-21 often carry both local and through traffic. Staying alert, maintaining safe following distances, and reducing speed in congested areas can help lower the risk of multi-vehicle crashes on rural highways.
