Tragic Pedestrian Accident Claims Life in Beaufort County

Beaufort County, January 21, 2026

A pedestrian accident on U.S. 17 in Beaufort County resulted in the death of Scott McKeever, 48, from Bluffton. He was struck by a tractor-trailer on Monday evening, suffering fatal blunt force injuries. Local authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, which has raised concerns about pedestrian safety on busy highways.

Beaufort County, South Carolina – A devastating pedestrian accident on Monday evening resulted in the death of a Bluffton resident in Beaufort County. Scott McKeever, 48, was fatally struck by a tractor-trailer on U.S. 17 (Charleston Highway). The incident, which occurred earlier this week, has been confirmed by local authorities.

The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office officially identified Mr. McKeever as the victim. According to their findings, he suffered blunt force injuries in the collision, which were determined to be the cause of death. Mr. McKeever was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash at approximately 7:55 p.m. on Monday. His residence was in Bluffton, highlighting the local impact of this tragedy.

Details of the Tragic Collision

The collision involved Mr. McKeever and a large commercial vehicle, specifically a tractor-trailer. Reports from authorities indicate that the tractor-trailer was traveling in a northbound direction on U.S. 17 when the incident occurred. The specific circumstances that led to Mr. McKeever being on the highway and subsequently struck by the vehicle have not been publicly detailed by officials at this time. Investigations into such incidents typically examine various factors, including visibility, lighting conditions, and the exact movements of both the pedestrian and the vehicle prior to impact. However, no official statements regarding the specifics of an ongoing investigation have been released.

Role of the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office

Upon arrival at the scene, emergency services and law enforcement personnel secured the area. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office played a crucial role in the aftermath, swiftly responding to the incident. Their primary responsibility in such events involves the formal identification of the deceased and the determination of the cause and manner of death. In Mr. McKeever’s case, the Coroner’s Office quickly worked to identify him as the individual involved in the fatal collision, confirming his age and place of residence. The finding of blunt force injuries as the cause of death provides critical factual information regarding the severity and nature of the impact. This official confirmation is vital for family notification and subsequent processes.

Understanding Blunt Force Trauma

Blunt force injuries, as cited by the Coroner’s Office, refer to trauma caused by a forceful impact with a blunt object or surface, rather than a sharp one. In the context of a vehicular collision, this typically involves the body’s impact with parts of the vehicle or the road surface, leading to internal and external damage. The severity of such injuries can vary greatly but are often life-threatening in high-impact incidents involving large vehicles like tractor-trailers, given the significant mass and momentum involved. This type of trauma accounts for a large percentage of fatalities in serious traffic accidents, underscoring the severe risks associated with such collisions.

The Location: U.S. 17 (Charleston Highway)

The accident occurred on U.S. 17, also known as Charleston Highway, which is a major state-level roadway in Beaufort County. This highway is a key transportation artery, facilitating significant traffic flow, including commercial vehicles. Its designation as a U.S. Highway indicates its importance in connecting communities and supporting regional commerce. As with many major highways, U.S. 17 typically features multiple lanes, higher speed limits, and limited pedestrian infrastructure, making it a challenging environment for individuals on foot. Roadways of this nature are generally designed for continuous vehicular movement, and unexpected pedestrian presence, especially outside of marked crossings, can create dangerous situations for both pedestrians and drivers.

Broader Context of Road Safety

This tragic event underscores ongoing concerns regarding road safety, particularly the interactions between pedestrians and large commercial vehicles on busy thoroughfares. Across the state and nation, efforts are continually made to enhance pedestrian safety through various measures, including improved lighting, designated pedestrian zones, and public awareness campaigns. Drivers of all vehicle types, especially those operating large trucks, are urged to remain highly vigilant, particularly in areas where pedestrians might unexpectedly be present. Conversely, pedestrians are advised to adhere strictly to safety guidelines, which include using sidewalks and designated crossing points, wearing reflective clothing at night, and avoiding distractions when near traffic. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the critical importance of shared responsibility for safety on the roads.

Community Response and Moving Forward

The loss of Scott McKeever is undoubtedly a somber moment for his family, friends, and the Bluffton community. Tragedies of this nature often prompt reflections on local road safety and community support. While the immediate focus remains on understanding the full scope of the incident, the long-term goal for communities is often to prevent similar occurrences through education and infrastructure improvements. Local authorities continue to work diligently on such matters, striving to ensure the safety of all who use the public roadways.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who was the victim of the Beaufort County tractor-trailer crash?

  The victim of the Beaufort County tractor-trailer crash was Scott McKeever, 48, of Bluffton.

• When did the fatal accident occur?

  The fatal accident occurred on Monday evening, with Mr. McKeever being pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 7:55 p.m. on Monday.

• Where did the tractor-trailer crash take place?

  The tractor-trailer crash took place on U.S. 17 (Charleston Highway) in Beaufort County, South Carolina.

• What was the cause of death for Scott McKeever?

  The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Scott McKeever died from blunt force injuries sustained in the accident.

• What type of vehicle was involved in the collision?

  The collision involved a tractor-trailer, which was reportedly traveling northbound on U.S. 17.

Key Details of the Beaufort County Tractor-Trailer Crash

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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.