Two Dead Following Tragic Crash in Lexington County, SCHP Confirms
Lexington County, SC — A devastating collision claimed the lives of two young women Sunday night in Lexington County, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol. The incident occurred shortly before 9 p.m. at the intersection of Neely Wingard Road and Ben Franklin Road, a rural junction located approximately eight miles east of Batesburg-Leesville.
According to SCHP, a 2019 Jeep Laredo traveling eastbound on Ben Franklin Road struck a 2004 Chevrolet Malibu that was headed south on Neely Wingard Road. The crash was forceful enough to leave significant damage to both vehicles and tragically led to multiple casualties.
Authorities stated that the driver of the Jeep Laredo, who was the only occupant of that vehicle, sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Fortunately, the driver’s injuries were described as non-life-threatening.
Inside the Chevrolet Malibu were three individuals. Troopers confirmed that two of the passengers in the Malibu died at the scene due to injuries sustained in the collision. The Lexington County Coroner’s Office, led by Coroner Margaret Fisher, later identified the victims as 22-year-old Claire Pierce of Lexington and 21-year-old Eliza Udy of Leesville. Both young women were described as bright, vibrant individuals with deep ties to their local communities. Their deaths have left family, friends, and community members grieving the loss of two lives taken far too soon.
The driver of the Malibu was also injured and taken to a local hospital, where they are receiving care for injuries that are not considered life-threatening. No further details about the driver have been released at this time.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol has not yet disclosed the cause of the crash or whether any citations will be issued. Investigators are continuing to collect evidence and examine the circumstances surrounding the accident. Factors such as speed, visibility, road conditions, and driver impairment are typically assessed as part of a standard crash investigation, though authorities have not commented on any potential contributing factors.
Local residents familiar with the intersection have expressed concern about safety in that area. Though not a major highway, Neely Wingard and Ben Franklin Roads are frequented by both local traffic and passers-through. Some neighbors reported that the intersection can be difficult to navigate at night, citing poor lighting and limited visibility as ongoing issues.
As the investigation continues, the families of Claire Pierce and Eliza Udy are left grappling with an unspeakable loss. Both women were in the prime of their lives, and tributes from loved ones and community members have begun to pour in across social media.
“We are heartbroken,” one family member wrote. “Claire had so many dreams. She lit up every room she entered. Eliza was just the same — so full of life and kindness.”
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol urges anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to come forward as they work to piece together what led to this tragedy. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety, especially at night and on less-traveled rural roads.
As the community mourns, local officials and law enforcement reiterate their commitment to conducting a thorough investigation in pursuit of justice and closure for the victims and their families.