Stanley Smith Obituary, Death – Fatal Collision on Savannah Highway Claims Life of 70-Year-Old Man
A tragic accident occurred on Savannah Highway in the early hours of Wednesday, October 16, resulting in the death of 70-year-old Stanley Smith. According to Charleston County Coroner Bobbi Jo O’Neal, Smith succumbed to his injuries at the Medical University of South Carolina, where he was pronounced dead at 5:15 a.m.
The collision involved two construction vehicles, one of which was driven by Kendall Hawkins, who executed an illegal U-turn, leading to the accident. Hawkins was pulling a trailer with three occupants, including Smith, who was ejected onto the roadway along with the other two occupants. Smith’s injuries proved fatal, while the other two occupants sustained serious injuries.
Both Hawkins and the driver of the second construction vehicle, Rockarius King, were charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in connection with the accident. The fact that both drivers were allegedly impaired has added a deeper layer of concern and tragedy to the situation, highlighting the dangers of impaired driving, especially in the context of heavy construction equipment.
This fatal crash serves as a grim reminder of the potentially catastrophic consequences of driving under the influence. Both Hawkins and King face serious legal repercussions for their alleged roles in the accident.
DUI charges carry significant penalties in South Carolina, and given the fatal nature of the collision, both drivers could face substantial prison time, fines, and other consequences if convicted.
The incident on Savannah Highway is not the first of its kind, as impaired driving remains a significant problem in Charleston County and across the state.
Law enforcement officials routinely warn about the dangers of driving while intoxicated, and cases like this one highlight how a single reckless decision can lead to the loss of life and serious injury.
As the investigation continues, authorities will likely examine the circumstances leading up to the crash, including the illegal U-turn, road conditions, speed, and visibility at the time of the accident.
The family and loved ones of Stanley Smith are left to cope with the aftermath of this tragic event, and the community is reminded of the importance of safe driving practices.
