Newberry Co., SC – Fatal Crash Reported on I-26 EB Near Mile Marker 75

Investigators said the driver of a 2002 Lexus was refueling a disabled vehicle on the eastbound shoulder when a 2021 Ford van veered off the right side of the roadway and struck both the driver and the Lexus. The Lexus driver died from their injuries. A passenger in the vehicle was not injured.

Authorities said the Ford van left the scene after the crash and was later involved in another collision before being taken to a hospital by EMS. The driver of the van, identified as 42-year-old William Gunter of Columbia, was later arrested and faces multiple charges, including felony leaving the scene of a collision involving death and felony DUI.

The crash remains under investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased driver.

What Makes Shoulder Crashes on Highways Especially Dangerous?

Crashes that occur on highway shoulders can be particularly dangerous because drivers outside their vehicles are exposed to fast-moving traffic. Even when a vehicle is disabled, passing traffic may not always have enough time or space to avoid someone standing nearby.

Investigators often examine roadway conditions, driver impairment, and lane-departure patterns to determine why a vehicle left its travel lane. Shoulder areas may offer limited protection, especially on high-speed interstates like I-26. In many cases, secondary impacts and hit-and-run behavior can further complicate the investigation and increase the severity of outcomes.