Zinja Devine Obituary, Death – Hit-and-Run Accident Claims the Life of Greenville Resident on Interstate 26
A tragic hit-and-run accident on May 23, 2025, has left a community in mourning following the death of 61-year-old Zinja Devine, a pedestrian from Greenville. The incident occurred on Interstate 26 near Harleyville, Dorchester County, and has prompted an active investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol. The victim was struck by a vehicle while walking illegally along the westbound lanes of the highway, a dangerous and prohibited activity given the high-speed traffic common on interstate roads.
The Incident: Tragic Loss on a Busy Highway
The collision took place around 7:40 a.m. on May 23, when Zinja Devine was walking along the westbound lanes of I-26 near the 180-mile marker. According to the Dorchester County Coroner’s Office, Devine was found at the scene and was immediately pronounced dead by emergency responders. Authorities confirmed that Devine’s presence on the highway was unlawful, as pedestrians are not allowed to walk along such dangerous stretches of roadway due to the obvious risk posed by fast-moving vehicles.
The vehicle that struck Devine fled the scene immediately after the impact, making this incident a hit-and-run. The driver’s failure to stop and provide assistance or at least remain at the scene has only added to the tragedy, leaving Devine’s family, friends, and the community searching for answers.
Investigation Underway: Seeking Justice for Devine
The South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP), in collaboration with the Dorchester County Coroner’s Office, is conducting an active investigation into the hit-and-run incident. Authorities are working diligently to find the vehicle responsible for the crash and the driver who fled the scene. The investigation is focused on collecting all available evidence, including eyewitness reports, surveillance footage from nearby cameras, and any other information that could help identify the suspect vehicle and its driver.
The failure to stop after such an incident, especially involving a pedestrian fatality, is a crime that carries serious legal consequences. The authorities are urging the public to come forward with any tips or information that might lead to the identification of the driver involved in the crash. While the investigation remains ongoing, the SCHP has stated that every effort will be made to bring the responsible party to justice and provide closure to Devine’s loved ones.
The Risks of Pedestrians on High-Speed Roadways
This tragic incident highlights the dangerous reality of pedestrians being present on interstate highways. Due to the high-speed nature of traffic on roads like I-26, pedestrians face extreme risks if they are found walking on such roadways. South Carolina, like many states, has strict laws prohibiting pedestrians from being on interstate highways, and for good reason—these roads are designed for motor vehicles, and any presence of a pedestrian in such areas puts them in immediate danger.
Devine’s decision to walk along the westbound lanes of I-26 is a stark reminder of the risks that individuals face when walking in prohibited areas. While authorities have not yet provided details on why Devine was walking on the highway, this incident serves as a critical lesson on the importance of adhering to traffic safety laws to protect not only pedestrians but also drivers and their passengers.
Community Reaction and Mourning
The news of Zinja Devine’s death has deeply affected the community in Greenville, where Devine was known to many. Friends, family, and neighbors are mourning the loss of a loved one whose life was tragically cut short under such devastating circumstances. While details about Devine’s life and background have not been fully disclosed, it is clear that the loss is being felt far and wide.
Community members have expressed their shock and grief over the fatal crash, with many recalling how the streets of Greenville had been a place where people often knew each other by name. Devine’s sudden and tragic passing has led to an outpouring of support for his family, who are grappling with the pain of losing someone in such a violent and senseless manner.
The incident has also sparked renewed discussions about pedestrian safety on highways, particularly in areas where people may be walking or engaging in other activities that put them at risk. Local officials have called for increased awareness and enforcement of traffic laws to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
Public Appeals for Assistance: Help Find the Hit-and-Run Driver
As the investigation continues, the South Carolina Highway Patrol and the Dorchester County Coroner’s Office are asking for the public’s help in locating the driver responsible for the hit-and-run. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information about the vehicle involved is urged to come forward. Tips from the public are often crucial in solving hit-and-run cases, as witnesses can provide vital details that lead to the identification of suspects.
Investigators are particularly interested in any surveillance footage that may have captured the crash or the fleeing vehicle, as well as descriptions of the vehicle itself. The SCHP has emphasized that any piece of information—no matter how small it may seem—could be critical in bringing justice to Zinja Devine and his family.
A Call for Accountability and Change
The tragic death of Zinja Devine brings to light the dangers of both pedestrians on highways and the growing problem of hit-and-run accidents. While the circumstances of Devine’s actions leading up to the incident are still under investigation, the case raises important questions about driver accountability, the importance of stopping after an accident, and how authorities can improve safety on highways to protect both pedestrians and drivers.
As the investigation into Devine’s death unfolds, there are increasing calls from advocates for more awareness and safety measures to reduce pedestrian accidents on interstates and other high-speed roads. Public education campaigns and stronger enforcement of pedestrian-related traffic laws may help prevent future tragedies and promote safer behavior on the roads.
A Somber Reminder of Life’s Fragility
Zinja Devine’s death serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability and fragility of life. What began as a normal day for Devine ended in a senseless tragedy, and his family and the community are now left to cope with the profound loss. As authorities work to solve the case, the public is urged to remain vigilant about the dangers on the roads and to follow the laws in place to ensure the safety of all.
This tragic event also underscores the importance of justice and accountability for those responsible for hit-and-run accidents. By coming forward with information, the public can help authorities locate the driver and bring them to justice, ensuring that this case is resolved and that Zinja Devine’s memory is honored.
Conclusion
The hit-and-run death of Zinja Devine on May 23, 2025, in Dorchester County has left a deep wound in the community. As the South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to investigate, the search for the responsible driver remains ongoing. Local residents are calling for accountability and justice for the tragic loss of a man whose life ended in such a senseless way. The community of Greenville and beyond mourns his loss, hoping for answers and greater awareness of pedestrian safety on the roads.
