Orangeburg County, SC (March 6, 2026) – Authorities have identified the pedestrian who died in a crash early on Friday morning, March 6, along U.S. 301 near Dempsey Road in Orangeburg County.
Emergency units responded around 12:50 a.m. after reports that a person had been struck by a vehicle on the roadway. Investigators said a 2018 Mazda sport utility vehicle was traveling south on U.S. 301 when it hit a pedestrian.
Officials later identified the victim as 45-year-old Francis Simmons of Eutawville. Simmons died at the scene as a result of the injuries sustained in the collision.
The crash remains under investigation. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Francis Simmons.
Pedestrian Crash Risks on Rural Highways
Roadways such as U.S. 301 often serve as main travel routes through rural areas and smaller communities. These highways typically carry vehicles traveling at higher speeds than those on local streets, which can increase the risk to pedestrians in the roadway.
Limited lighting and long stretches of open roadway may reduce visibility for drivers during overnight and early morning hours. When a pedestrian is present in the lane of travel, drivers may have very little time to react.
Collisions between vehicles and pedestrians on rural highways often result in severe outcomes due to high traffic speeds and the lack of protective barriers. Road design, lighting conditions, and driver awareness can all influence the occurrence of these incidents.
