NORTH CHARLESTON, Charleston County, S.C., Oct. 24, 2026 — One person died on Friday morning, October 23, in a head-on collision on Carner Avenue near Rivers Avenue in North Charleston. A man now faces a reckless homicide charge in connection with the crash.
North Charleston police responded to the crash site just before 7:30 a.m., according to Lt. Anthony King. Two vehicles were involved, and one driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say evidence from the initial investigation indicates the driver now charged, identified by police as 46-year-old Dominic Jack McGrath of Summerville, was speeding and crossed the centerline before his vehicle struck the other car. McGrath was booked into the Al Cannon Detention Center on a reckless homicide charge.
The crash remains under investigation. Authorities have not released additional details about the victim or the second vehicle involved.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the person who died.
More on Crashes in North Charleston, SC
This fatal crash happened at Carner Avenue and Rivers Avenue in North Charleston, SC. We cover crashes across Charleston County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our recent crash reports from Charleston County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are head-on crashes so severe?
When two vehicles meet head-on, their combined speed multiplies the force of impact compared to a crash where one vehicle is stationary or moving in the same direction. That leaves occupants exposed to much harder, faster deceleration.
How can drivers avoid a head-on collision?
Staying alert to lane position, slowing down in areas with limited visibility, and never passing on a two-lane road without a clear, long sightline are basic habits that help drivers stay in their own lane and out of oncoming traffic.
Where do most head-on crashes happen?
They're common on two-lane roads without a median or barrier separating opposing traffic, especially where a vehicle drifts or crosses the centerline rather than at complex intersections.
What role does passing play in head-on crashes?
Passing maneuvers on undivided roads put a vehicle directly into the oncoming lane for several seconds. A misjudged gap, a hidden curve, or another driver's speed can quickly turn that maneuver into a head-on crash.
What to Do After a Head-On Crash in North Charleston, SC
Call 911 right away and stay as still as possible until emergency crews arrive, since injuries from a head-on impact aren't always obvious at first. Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical provider within a day or two, as soreness, swelling, or signs of a concussion can take hours to appear. Take photos of the vehicles, the road, and any visible damage if you're able to safely do so, and get the responding officer's name and the report number before you leave the scene. Keep copies of any medical paperwork and follow up with your insurer promptly so the details of what happened are documented while they're fresh.