A tragic crash in Greenville County has left a family grieving and a community shaken after a 2-month-old infant lost her life due to severe injuries sustained in a single-vehicle collision, a heartbreaking case that a personal injury lawyer may later review when child fatalities raise questions of negligence and accountability. Authorities confirmed that the child later died at Greenville Memorial Hospital, and the driver, who was identified as the infant’s aunt, has since been denied bond while facing multiple serious charges.
The incident, which occurred on Lions Club Road near Lily Street, is under active investigation by law enforcement. Cases involving infant fatalities carry immense emotional weight and raise serious concerns about impaired driving, child safety, and accountability on South Carolina roadways.
Details of the Crash on Lions Club Road
According to troopers with the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the crash took place on Saturday at approximately 3:03 p.m. A 2015 Nissan sedan carrying three occupants was traveling east on Lions Club Road in Greenville County.
Investigators stated that the vehicle left the right side of the roadway and struck a utility pole. The impact caused critical injuries to all occupants, including a 2-month-old infant who was rushed to Greenville Memorial Hospital for emergency treatment.
Despite medical efforts, the child later died due to the injuries sustained in the crash.
Identification of the Victim
The Greenville County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Heydi Sarai Ramos Chavez, a 2-month-old infant. Officials confirmed that the baby passed away at Greenville Memorial Hospital as a result of crash-related injuries.
An autopsy has been scheduled to further determine the cause of death and document the extent of the injuries. In fatal crash cases, autopsy findings often play a critical role in ongoing investigations and court proceedings.
Charges Filed Against the Driver
Authorities identified the driver as 18 year old Ruby Montes Pastor, who is related to the infant. Jail records indicate that she is facing multiple felony charges, including:
- Felony DUI involving death
- Felony hit and run involving death
- Child endangerment
- Violation of a beginner’s permit
These charges reflect the severity of the incident and the legal consequences associated with impaired driving and unsafe operation of a vehicle when a child is present.
On Sunday, officials confirmed that the driver was denied bond and remains in custody.
Understanding Felony DUI Involving Death
Felony DUI involving death is among the most serious traffic-related offenses in South Carolina. This charge applies when a driver operates a vehicle while impaired and causes a fatal crash.
Convictions can carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and long-term loss of driving privileges. When an infant or child is involved, the legal consequences and emotional impact are even greater.
These cases are prosecuted aggressively due to the irreversible harm caused and the preventable nature of impaired driving.
Child Endangerment and Passenger Safety
Child endangerment charges reflect the responsibility drivers have to protect minors in their care. Infants are especially vulnerable in vehicle crashes due to their fragile bodies and dependence on proper restraints and attentive driving.
Any failure to ensure safety, whether through impaired driving, improper licensing, or reckless behavior, can lead to devastating outcomes. Laws related to child endangerment are designed to hold individuals accountable when their actions place a child at serious risk.
Beginner’s Permit Violations and Driving Restrictions
Violating the terms of a beginner’s permit is a serious offense. South Carolina places strict limits on new drivers, including restrictions related to supervision, passenger limits, and driving conditions.
These restrictions exist to reduce risk during the early stages of driving. Ignoring permit conditions, especially while transporting passengers, increases the likelihood of accidents and legal consequences.
Emotional Impact on Families and Communities
Fatal crashes involving infants leave lasting scars on families and communities. The loss of a child is an unimaginable tragedy, and when the incident involves a family member, the emotional complexity is profound.
Communities often rally together in the wake of such incidents, offering support while grappling with questions about prevention, responsibility, and justice.
The Role of Investigation in Fatal Crashes
Law enforcement agencies conduct thorough investigations following fatal crashes. These investigations may include:
- Accident reconstruction
- Toxicology testing
- Vehicle inspections
- Witness interviews
- Review of licensing and driving history
The findings help determine accountability and ensure that the legal process is based on accurate and complete information.
Why Single-Vehicle Crashes Can Be So Dangerous
Single-vehicle crashes often involve high speeds, loss of control, or impaired driving. Collisions with fixed objects such as utility poles can result in severe injuries due to the sudden stop and concentrated impact.
For passengers, especially infants, the lack of protection in such crashes significantly increases the risk of fatal injuries.
Legal Considerations After Fatal Vehicle Accidents
Fatal crashes raise complex legal issues for families affected by the loss. Medical costs, funeral expenses, and emotional suffering can place an overwhelming burden on loved ones.
Understanding legal rights after a fatal accident is an important step for families seeking answers and accountability. Proper guidance can help families navigate an extremely difficult time while protecting their interests.
The Importance of Safe and Responsible Driving
This tragedy underscores the importance of responsible driving, particularly when transporting children. Impaired driving, failure to follow licensing rules, and reckless decisions can result in irreversible consequences.
Every driver has a duty to protect passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians by operating vehicles safely and lawfully.
Community Awareness and Prevention
Public awareness plays a key role in preventing future tragedies. Education around impaired driving, child passenger safety, and licensing requirements can help reduce risk and save lives. Incidents like this serve as painful reminders of why traffic safety laws exist and why compliance matters. If your family has been affected by a serious or fatal crash, speaking with a legal team can help you understand your rights and next steps during an incredibly difficult time.
