A tragic single-vehicle crash in Lexington County, South Carolina, has claimed the life of a local resident late Thursday evening. According to reports from the South Carolina Highway Patrol, a Ford F-150 traveling east on Calks Ferry Road ran off the roadway and struck a tree near the intersection of Old Charleston Road, just north of Pelion.
The driver, later identified by Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher as Byron Paul Gunter, 37, of Lexington, was pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers confirmed that Gunter was the only occupant of the vehicle and that no other cars were involved in the collision, according to a car accident lawyer.
Details of the Fatal Crash
Officials reported that the wreck occurred late Thursday, shortly before midnight. The Ford F-150 appears to have veered off the road and hit a tree with severe impact, resulting in fatal injuries. The cause of the crash remains under crash investigation, and authorities are reviewing all possible factors, including driver behavior, speed, and road conditions.
The accident report from the South Carolina Highway Patrol stated that Emergency Medical Services responded immediately to the crash scene on Calks Ferry Road. Despite their efforts, Byron Paul Gunter was pronounced dead due to blunt force trauma caused by the collision.
Identification by Coroner Margaret Fisher
Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher officially released the victim’s name on Friday morning, confirming the identity of Byron Paul Gunter. The coroner noted that Gunter’s injuries were consistent with high-speed impact and that no other passengers were inside the Ford F-150 at the time of the crash.
The coroner’s office will coordinate with the family of Byron Paul Gunter regarding funeral costs and final arrangements. The family, along with friends in Lexington County, are mourning the unexpected loss and remembering Gunter as a kind-hearted and hardworking man.
Law Enforcement and Investigation
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is continuing its crash investigation to determine the cause of the wreck. Troopers are examining the accident report, reviewing potential surveillance cameras from nearby intersections such as Old Charleston Road, and assessing the scene for contributing factors such as road infrastructure, visibility, or possible mechanical failure of the Ford F-150.
Law enforcement has not yet released findings regarding speed or impairment, but they confirmed that toxicology reports are pending as part of the vehicular homicide review protocol.
Community Mourns the Loss
Residents in Lexington County and nearby Pelion expressed their condolences to the family of Byron Paul Gunter. Several community members have visited the crash site on Calks Ferry Road to leave flowers and notes. Friends said Gunter was known for his generosity and involvement in the local church.
Neighbor Shirley Barron, who lives near Old Charleston Road, told local news that she heard emergency sirens late that night. “It’s heartbreaking,” she said. “He was a good man who always helped others.”
Coverage from local media, including Gulf Coast News affiliates, noted that the community is calling for more safety measures along rural stretches of Calks Ferry Road, which has been the site of several fatal crashes in recent years.
Road Conditions and Safety Concerns
This latest tragedy adds to ongoing concerns about roadway designs and public safety in Lexington County. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, South Carolina ranks among the top states for traffic fatalities and motor vehicle crashes involving single vehicles.
Calks Ferry Road and Old Charleston Road are known for sharp curves, limited lighting, and narrow shoulders conditions that can make even small driving errors deadly. Safety experts are urging law enforcement and local officials to evaluate road improvements and better signage to prevent further driving incidents.
Possible Contributing Factors
Investigators are looking into whether speeding, impaired driving, or distracted driver behavior played a role in the crash. The accident report and vehicle inspection of the Ford F-150 will help determine if any mechanical failure occurred before the truck struck the tree.
Officials also confirmed that Emergency Medical Services transported Gunter’s body to the coroner’s office after the scene was cleared. Preliminary findings show no indication of another vehicle’s involvement, ruling out vehicular homicide charges for other parties.
Legal and Safety Awareness
The tragedy has renewed attention to personal injury awareness and wrongful death claim rights for families affected by fatal wrecks. Law firms like Bond Legal, led by Candice Bond, often highlight the importance of ensuring accountability and supporting victims’ families after catastrophic accidents.
Bond Legal frequently provides guidance on accident reports, funeral costs, and legal pathways for surviving relatives. Candice Bond’s campaign, “More Than A Number,” encourages communities to view victims like Byron Paul Gunter not as statistics, but as individuals whose lives mattered deeply.
Statements From Officials
In a statement to local news, Coroner Margaret Fisher emphasized the need for caution on rural roads. “Drivers should be especially careful in low-visibility areas and always wear seatbelts,” she said. Officials also reminded residents that traffic updates and road closure information can be accessed via news websites and local transportation channels.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to urge drivers to reduce speed on Calks Ferry Road, obey posted limits, and report any hazardous conditions to law enforcement.
Remembering Byron Paul Gunter
The family of Byron Paul Gunter is now planning memorial services in Lexington County. Friends and loved ones have established an online fund to assist with funeral costs and support his relatives during this difficult time.
Residents across Central Georgia and South Carolina have expressed sympathy, using social media and local news outlets to share tributes and messages of comfort.
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