News Summary
Beaufort County is experiencing heightened safety concerns following two fatal pedestrian accidents, multiple drownings, and a serious boating incident. Authorities urge increased vigilance as the Independence Day weekend approaches. A cyclist was struck by a hit-and-run vehicle, prompting a search for the suspect. Drowning incidents at local beaches highlight the dangers of ocean conditions. With 23 boating fatalities already recorded this year, local officials are conducting free boat inspections to improve water safety. The community is reminded to prioritize safety during the busy summer season.
Beaufort County, SC – Two fatal pedestrian accidents, multiple drownings, and a serious boating incident have raised safety concerns in Beaufort County during the summer months, prompting local authorities to issue safety alerts as residents and visitors prepare for the upcoming Independence Day weekend.
On Sunday morning, two deadly crashes occurred on US-21 in Burton, with local fire officials calling for drivers to exercise increased vigilance. The first incident involved a vehicle striking a pedestrian just after midnight. In a separate accident six hours later, a cyclist, identified as Vick Smalls, was hit by a vehicle that fled the scene. Authorities are actively searching for a 1990s Ford Truck or early 2000s Ford SUV with damage to its passenger-side headlight, as it may be connected to the cycling accident.
In light of these incidents, safety recommendations have been issued for pedestrians and cyclists, advising individuals to travel during well-lit hours and wear reflective clothing when biking or walking at night to enhance visibility.
Additionally, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office investigated two drowning incidents involving visitors from Georgia. The first case occurred on June 30 at Coligny Beach, where a 69-year-old man drowned. Despite efforts from a lifeguard and bystanders to revive him, they were unfortunately unsuccessful. The second victim, a 65-year-old man, was discovered floating near the shore at Hunting Island State Park on July 1, and attempts at CPR also failed to save him. The Sheriff’s Office emphasized the unpredictable nature of ocean conditions, urging beachgoers to remain vigilant regarding water safety.
As Beaufort County approaches a peak period for beach visits with the Independence Day holiday, the community grapples with safety concerns stemming from these tragic incidents. A separate boating accident in Skull Creek on June 27 resulted in two fatalities and two injuries. The incident has underscored the risks associated with water activities in the area. In 2023, South Carolina has recorded 23 boating fatalities from 150 accidents, prompting authorities to conduct free boat inspections in an effort to enhance safety on waterways.
Authorities for the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office are currently working on identifying the victims involved in both the pedestrian and boating accidents, which have heightened concerns for the local community. Meanwhile, McSweeney Engineers are evaluating structural issues at Waterfront Park. Despite these safety challenges, the city has confirmed that public access is still permitted to several areas for the upcoming Water Festival. However, there will be a 10% reduction in ticket sales for this year’s festival as a precautionary measure.
As the summer activities continue, local officials are urging residents and visitors to prioritize safety. The tragic events serve as a reminder of the importance of heightened awareness on the roadways and in the water, especially during a time when many are enjoying the warmer weather and outdoor activities.
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Beaufort News
- WTOC: Beaufort County Fire Department Safety Tips
- Post and Courier: Beaufort Water Festival 2025
- Bluffton Today: Drowning Incidents in Beaufort County
- Carolina Coast Online: Beaufort County Safety Alerts
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
