Oconee County, SC (September 24, 2025) – A tragic chain-reaction crash on I-85 near mile marker 2 claimed the life of one man and left three others injured Tuesday morning, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol and the Oconee County Coroner’s Office. The collision happened at approximately 6:05 a.m., close to the South Carolina–Georgia border, after construction traffic caused vehicles to slow in the northbound lanes.
Troopers reported that a 2016 Freightliner tractor-trailer struck a 2013 Honda sedan from behind, pushing it into a 2019 Chevy pickup. The force of the impact then caused the pickup to collide with a 1998 Chevy truck. Following the initial crash, both the tractor-trailer and the Honda crossed the cable median barrier and collided with a 2015 Chevy pickup traveling southbound.
The coroner confirmed that the driver of the Honda, 34-year-old Rafael B. Veloz, became entrapped in the vehicle. Emergency medical services performed life-saving efforts after extricating him, but he was pronounced dead at the scene at 7:10 a.m. His cause of death was listed as blunt force chest trauma.
Three other drivers were transported to area hospitals with injuries. The driver of the 2019 Chevy pickup was taken to Greenville Memorial Hospital, the driver of the 1998 Chevy pickup to AnMed Hospital, and the driver of the 2015 Chevy pickup to Oconee Memorial Hospital. The tractor-trailer driver was not injured, officials confirmed.
Investigators with the South Carolina Highway Patrol’s Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team continue to examine the circumstances of the crash, including the impact of slowed traffic in the construction zone.
Our hearts go out to the family of Rafael B. Veloz and to those recovering from injuries in this devastating incident.
Construction Zone Collisions in South Carolina
This deadly collision on I-85 near the Georgia border underscores the dangers of construction zones on high-speed highways. Traffic congestion and sudden slowdowns create high-risk conditions where even small errors can lead to catastrophic outcomes, particularly when large commercial trucks are involved.
Rear-end crashes involving tractor-trailers often result in disproportionate damage due to the weight and force of these vehicles. In this case, the chain reaction affected multiple pickups and tragically led to a fatality when the initial impact propelled vehicles across the median into oncoming lanes. Such scenarios highlight the importance of both heightened driver awareness and improved construction zone safety measures.
South Carolina continues to report a significant number of serious crashes tied to construction traffic each year. Drivers approaching work zones are urged to maintain safe following distances, reduce speeds, and anticipate abrupt stops. Commercial truck operators, in particular, face added responsibility to control stopping distances and ensure proper lookout when traffic slows.
For families like that of Rafael B. Veloz, the aftermath of such accidents brings not only grief but also questions about accountability and recovery. Accessing resources for medical care, counseling, and legal guidance can be essential steps toward healing and resolution.
At Local Accident Reports, we are committed to supporting families and victims impacted by devastating crashes. If you have been affected by a work-zone or truck-related accident, reach out to us today. We provide timely updates, compassionate resources, and guidance to help you through this difficult time.
