Beaufort SC, October 11, 2025
News Summary
A Grays Hill man has been arrested in connection with the hit-and-run death of 50-year-old bicyclist Vick Smalls on Trask Parkway. The incident occurred during the July 4th weekend when Smalls was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. Tremaine Jalik Coker is now facing charges for his actions, and the local community is mourning the loss of Smalls, remembered as a vibrant and compassionate individual. This incident highlights serious concerns about road safety and accountability for drivers involved in fatal accidents.
Beaufort
A 26-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the hit-and-run death of 50-year-old bicyclist Vick Smalls, who was tragically killed on Trask Parkway during the July 4th weekend. The incident took place between 8 p.m. on July 5 and 6 a.m. on July 6, as Smalls was riding his bicycle on U.S. Highway 21 near Bruce K Smalls Drive when he was struck by a vehicle that subsequently fled the scene.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) initially identified the suspect vehicle as a blue Ford and launched a search, requesting public assistance to locate it. On October 9, 2025, Tremaine Jalik Coker, a resident of Grays Hill, turned himself in to the authorities regarding the incident and has since been charged with hit and run, specifically the duties of a driver involved in an accident resulting in death. As of 5 p.m. on the day of his arrest, Coker remained in custody at the Beaufort County Detention Center, with bond information not immediately available.
Under South Carolina law, fleeing from a fatal hit-and-run incident is classified as a felony. Penalties for such an act can range from 1 to 25 years in prison or fines between $10,000 and $25,000. The acknowledgment of the serious nature of this crime has raised concerns within the community, particularly among those who knew Smalls.
The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the victim of the hit-and-run was Vick Smalls, a resident of Beaufort. Loved ones have remembered Smalls as a “natural comedian” and a compassionate friend, illustrating the human loss felt by those closest to him.
The SCHP had previously released photos of a potential suspect vehicle described as a blue 2002 Ford F-150 extended cab pickup truck. The sought vehicle had notable characteristics, including models from Ford F150 (1996-2004), Ford F250 (1997-1999), or Ford Expedition (1997-2002), which were part of the investigation as officials worked to piece together the details surrounding the tragic event.
Community response and remembrance
The incident has devastated the local community, with many expressing their sorrow for Smalls’s passing. Friends and family members have shared their memories, highlighting Smalls’s vibrant personality and the joy he brought to those around him. Memorials and public discussions about road safety for cyclists have increased following the tragedy, as advocates work to honor Smalls’s legacy by raising awareness.
Legal proceedings
As legal proceedings move forward, Coker will face the consequences of his actions under the law. The case underscores the ongoing issue of road safety and the importance of accountability in traffic-related incidents.
Background information on hit-and-run laws
In South Carolina, hit-and-run incidents, especially those resulting in death, are taken very seriously. The legislation aims to deter drivers from fleeing the scene of an accident, ensuring that victims and their families receive justice. Education and awareness campaigns are crucial in preventing such tragedies, fostering safer driving conditions for all road users.
FAQs
What happened to Vick Smalls?
A 50-year-old bicyclist, Vick Smalls, was killed on Trask Parkway during the July 4th weekend.
When did the hit-and-run incident occur?
The incident occurred between 8 p.m. on July 5 and 6 a.m. on July 6.
Who was arrested in connection with the hit-and-run?
Tremaine Jalik Coker, a 26-year-old from Grays Hill, was arrested in connection with the incident.
What charges has Coker faced?
Coker has been charged with hit and run; duties of driver involved in an accident with death.
What are potential penalties for fleeing a hit-and-run in South Carolina?
Fleeing a fatal hit-and-run is classified as a felony in South Carolina, with potential penalties ranging from 1 to 25 years in prison or fines between $10,000 and $25,000.
How are cyclists remembered in the community?
Loved ones remembered Vick Smalls as a “natural comedian” and a compassionate friend.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Vick Smalls, 50 years old, bicyclist |
| Incident Date | Between July 5, 8 p.m. – July 6, 6 a.m. |
| Suspect | Tremaine Jalik Coker, 26 years old, Grays Hill resident |
| Charges | Hit and run; duties of driver involved in an accident with death |
| Potential Penalties | 1 to 25 years in prison, $10,000 to $25,000 in fines |
| Community Response | Grief over Smalls’s death, increased road safety awareness |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Beaufort City Accidentally Releases Confidential Information
Fatal Hit-and-Run Accidents Focus Attention on Cyclist Safety
Safety Concerns Rise in Beaufort County After Fatal Incidents
Beaufort County Authorities Seek Help to Locate Missing Teen
Two Fatal Pedestrian Crashes in Burton, Beaufort County
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Beaufort Hit-and-Run Case
- Wikipedia: Hit-and-run
- WJCL: Trask Parkway Hit-and-Run
- Google Search: Beaufort hit-and-run
- Live 5 News: Bicyclist Killed in Beaufort County Hit-and-Run
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic accident
- WTOC: Vehicle Description in Beaufort Co Hit-and-Run
- Google News: Beaufort County hit-and-run
- Your Island News: Bicyclist Killed on Trask Parkway
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.
