Nathanial ‘Nate’ Baker obituary, death, 21, Tragically Killed in Motorcycle Accident at University of South Carolina: Driver Rosali Fernandez Cruz Arrested and Charged with Hit and Run, USC Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Student and Fraternity Brother
A devastating motorcycle accident has claimed the life of 21-year-old Nathanial “Nate” Baker, a junior majoring in business at the University of South Carolina (USC). The fatal accident occurred on Wednesday afternoon at the intersection of Blossom and Assembly streets in Columbia [1].
According to the Columbia Police Department (CPD), Baker was riding a motorcycle when he was struck by a pickup truck driven by 24-year-old Rosali Fernandez Cruz. Emergency responders transported Baker to Prisma Health Richland, but he later died from his injuries [1].
*Arrest and Charges*
The driver of the pickup truck, Rosali Fernandez Cruz, fled the scene after the crash. However, police were able to locate and arrest him. Cruz now faces multiple charges, including hit and run resulting in death, failure to render aid, and driving without a license [1].
*USC Community Mourns Loss*
Nathanial Baker was an active member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity at USC. The fraternity’s president described him as a well-respected and beloved individual. In the fall, Baker was honored with the Brother of the Year award and also served as the fraternity’s Tailgate Chair and Corresponding Secretary [1].
“People in our chapter regarded him as the best human being and someone you wanted as a friend,” the fraternity president shared. “He knew how to fix anything and always made people smile.” [1]
*Counseling Services Available*
In response to the tragedy, USC has made counseling services available to students and staff in need of support. The university’s counseling center is offering individual and group counseling sessions to help students process their grief and emotions [1].
*Investigation Ongoing*
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash. Further updates on the case may be provided as the situation develops. The CPD is urging anyone with information about the accident to come forward and assist in the investigation [1].
*Incident Timeline*
– Wednesday afternoon: Nathanial Baker is involved in a fatal motorcycle accident at the intersection of Blossom and Assembly streets in Columbia.
– Wednesday afternoon: Baker is transported to Prisma Health Richland, where he later dies from his injuries.
– Wednesday afternoon: The driver of the pickup truck, Rosali Fernandez Cruz, flees the scene but is later arrested and charged.
– Ongoing: The CPD investigates the circumstances of the crash, and USC provides counseling services to students and staff.
*References*
[1] University of South Carolina statement and reports from local authorities.
