Hilton Head Island, September 27, 2025
News Summary
Floyd Crespo, a wrecker operator for Rahn’s Wrecker Service, was tragically killed by a semi-truck in Hilton Head Island while assisting with a trailer lift. The incident occurred in the Harris Teeter parking lot, marking a grim milestone as the 16th traffic fatality in Beaufort County. Rahn’s Wrecker Service addressed misconceptions surrounding the incident and highlighted the importance of roadside safety. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating the crash, which reinforces the urgent need for heightened awareness among drivers.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina – Floyd Crespo, a wrecker operator employed by Rahn’s Wrecker Service, was killed by a semi-truck on September 25, 2025, at approximately 2:45 p.m. The tragic incident occurred while Crespo was working in the Harris Teeter parking lot located on Main Street in Hilton Head Island.
At the time of the accident, Crespo was completing a trailer lift that had become hung up on a curb. He successfully finished the lift and maneuvered his wrecker out of the roadway to facilitate access for other vehicles. While standing at the control compartment of his wrecker and rolling in the cables, Crespo was struck. The truck he had just recovered attempted to re-enter the parking lot from a roundabout, side-swiping Crespo’s wrecker, which led to him being pinned between the vehicle and the trailer.
Emergency responders pronounced Crespo deceased at the scene. The incident has been confirmed as one of the most tragic traffic events of the year in Beaufort County, marking the 16th traffic fatality in the area for 2025 and the 4th pedestrian death.
In response to the event, Rahn’s Wrecker Service issued a statement to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident. The company refuted local news reports that inaccurately described the occurrence as a pedestrian being struck by a semi-truck. They emphasized the importance of the “SLOW DOWN & MOVE OVER” campaign, aimed at protecting roadside workers. Furthermore, they requested prayers for Crespo’s family and their work family as they navigate this devastating loss.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating the crash. Initial reports from the scene described the incident differently, which has heightened attention to safety measures for wrecker operators and other roadside workers. Investigators have not yet disclosed whether any criminal charges will be filed against the truck driver involved in the incident.
The identity of the victim, Floyd Crespo, was confirmed by Rahn’s Wrecker Service, although the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office had not released the information initially. This incident underscores the continuing need for enhanced public awareness regarding roadway safety, particularly in areas where wrecker operators and other roadside personnel perform their duties.
Background Context on Traffic Safety
With traffic fatalities being a significant concern, authorities encourage drivers to slow down and move over when approaching emergency and roadside assistance vehicles. The tragic death of Crespo has reignited calls for drivers to remain vigilant and considerate, particularly in busy commercial areas such as parking lots where pedestrian traffic may be high.
FAQ
Who was Floyd Crespo?
Floyd Crespo was a wrecker operator working for Rahn’s Wrecker Service. He was killed by a semi-truck on Hilton Head Island on September 25, 2025.
What caused the incident?
The incident occurred when a truck Crespo had just recovered attempted to re-enter the parking lot and side-swiped Crespo’s wrecker, pinning him between the wrecker and the trailer.
What was Rahn’s Wrecker Service’s statement regarding the incident?
Rahn’s Wrecker Service issued a statement contradicting local news reports that inaccurately described the incident as a pedestrian being hit by a semi-truck. They highlighted the significance of the “SLOW DOWN & MOVE OVER” campaign and requested prayers for Crespo’s family.
What is being done to investigate the incident?
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the crash. Initial reports had described it incorrectly, and the investigation is ongoing to determine whether any criminal charges will be filed against the truck driver involved.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Floyd Crespo |
| Date of Incident | September 25, 2025 |
| Location | Harris Teeter parking lot, Main Street, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Status of Investigation | Ongoing by the South Carolina Highway Patrol |
| Traffic Fatalities in Beaufort County 2025 | 16 total; 4 pedestrian deaths |
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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.
