Beaufort County, January 22, 2026
A tragic accident occurred on U.S. Route 17 in Beaufort County when a pedestrian, Scott McKeever, was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer. The collision happened near River Road at around 8:11 p.m. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the circumstances of this accident. The investigation will involve thorough examinations and evidence collection to determine the cause of the crash.
Beaufort
A fatal collision occurred on U.S. 17 in Beaufort County on the evening of Monday, January 19, 2026, when a pedestrian was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer. The individual has been identified as 48-year-old Scott McKeever from Bluffton.
Details of the Incident
The collision took place at approximately 8:11 p.m. near River Road in Beaufort County. According to reports from the South Carolina Highway Patrol, a 1999 Peterbilt tractor-trailer was traveling northbound on U.S. 17 when it struck McKeever, who was in the roadway. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Scott McKeever died at the scene due to blunt force injuries sustained in the crash. The driver of the tractor-trailer was not injured in the incident. Authorities noted that the skies were clear on the night of the collision.
Ongoing Investigation
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this deadly collision. The specific cause of the crash remains undetermined as the investigation progresses. Investigations into fatal accidents are often thorough and comprehensive, aiming to reconstruct the sequence of events and identify contributing factors.
Typically, in complex or fatal cases, the South Carolina Highway Patrol’s Multi-disciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) may be deployed. This specialized team utilizes advanced technology and analytical methods to meticulously examine crash scenes. Their work involves collecting a wide array of evidence, including forensic samples, and analyzing details such as skid marks and vehicle damage.
Investigators gather information by interviewing witnesses, if available, and performing detailed studies of the vehicles involved. They also document the scene extensively through photographs, sketches, and diagrams. The evidence collected helps in reconstructing the crash through specialized software, which can animate the layout and sequence of events to provide insights into how the accident occurred. Additionally, in cases involving fatalities, the investigation often includes coordination with the coroner’s office, and reports may contain information from autopsy results.
Context of U.S. 17 in South Carolina
U.S. Route 17, often referred to as the Coastal Highway, is a significant north-south highway spanning approximately 221 miles through South Carolina. It runs near the Atlantic Ocean for much of its length within the state. The route traverses several counties, including Beaufort County, and serves as a major thoroughfare for both local and long-distance travel. It enters Beaufort County after passing through Jasper County, making it a critical part of the region’s transportation network.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Beaufort County recently?
A pedestrian was fatally struck by a tractor-trailer on U.S. 17 in Beaufort County on the evening of Monday, January 19, 2026.
Who was the victim of the accident?
The victim has been identified as 48-year-old Scott McKeever from Bluffton.
When did the collision occur?
The collision occurred at approximately 8:11 p.m. on Monday, January 19, 2026.
Where exactly did the accident take place?
The accident took place on U.S. 17 in Beaufort County, near River Road, with the tractor-trailer traveling northbound.
Which authorities are investigating the crash?
The South Carolina Highway Patrol, in conjunction with the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office, is investigating the crash.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The incident remains under investigation, and the specific cause of the crash is still unknown.
What kind of vehicle was involved?
A 1999 Peterbilt tractor-trailer was involved in the collision.
What is the role of the Multi-disciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) in such cases?
The South Carolina Highway Patrol’s Multi-disciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) may be deployed in complex or fatal crashes to conduct thorough scene examinations, collect evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident using specialized technology and analysis.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Incident Type | Fatal Pedestrian-Tractor-trailer Collision | Local |
| Location | U.S. 17 near River Road, Beaufort County | Local |
| Date & Time | Monday, January 19, 2026, approx. 8:11 p.m. | Local |
| Victim Identified | Scott McKeever, 48, from Bluffton | Local |
| Vehicle Involved | 1999 Peterbilt tractor-trailer | Local |
| Investigating Authority | South Carolina Highway Patrol | State-level |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing, cause unknown | Local |
| Road Type (U.S. 17) | Major highway, also known as Coastal Highway, approx. 221 miles long | State-level |
| Investigative Team (MAIT) | Multi-disciplinary Accident Investigation Team | State-level |
Now Happening on X
- @WSAV (January 20, 2026, 1:00 PM): A pedestrian was hit and killed in a collision in Beaufort County. View on X
- @BeaufortSC_EMS (January 21, 2026, 5:00 PM): Officials are providing tips for preparing for extremely cold weather this weekend, including stocking emergency supplies and checking heating systems. View on X
- @wcti12 (January 17, 2026, 7:51 AM): Authorities in Beaufort County are investigating multiple thefts of air conditioning units and copper wiring, seeking public assistance. View on X
- @QuintinOnCamera (January 16, 2026, 6:34 PM): A man has been arrested in connection with a shooting at a Beaufort mobile home park. View on X
- @QuintinOnCamera (January 22, 2026, 8:53 AM): Beaufort County authorities confirm a runaway juvenile has been safely located. View on X
- @RepNancyMace (January 21, 2026, 5:11 PM): Cold weather shelters are open in Beaufort, including Burton Wells Rec Center and Sea Island Presbyterian Church through January 24. View on X
- @wcti12 (January 20, 2026, 6:14 PM): Changes at the Beaufort town docks under new management are affecting where boaters can tie up. View on X
- @987theRiver (January 21, 2026, 3:37 AM): The Beaufort Police Department has located an 11-year-old who was reported missing. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Pedestrian Accident Claims Life in Beaufort County
Bluffton Man Dies After Being Struck by Tractor-Trailer
Mother Sues Beaufort County School District Over Child’s Injury
Fatal Pedestrian Collision in Beaufort County
Fatal Collision in Beaufort County Claims Life of Pedestrian
Fatal Head-On Collision on Sea Island Parkway Claims Two Lives
Tragic Accident Claims Life on Bluffton Parkway
Tragic Collision on Bluffton Parkway Claims Life in Beaufort County
Fatal Collision on Bluffton Parkway Claims Driver’s Life
Second Suspect Arrested in North Charleston Child Shooting
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.
