News Summary
A fatal hit-and-run incident in Beaufort County has resulted in the death of 50-year-old Vick Smalls. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating the collision that occurred on U.S. Highway 21. Witnesses reported a blue Ford truck or SUV involved, with noticeable damage. This marks the ninth and tenth traffic fatalities in the county this year, raising concerns about roadway safety. Authorities seek public assistance to identify the driver responsible for this tragic event.
Beaufort County Hit-and-Run Leaves Bicyclist Dead; Investigation Underway
The South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) is currently investigating a fatal hit-and-run collision involving a bicyclist that occurred in Beaufort County. The incident claimed the life of 50-year-old Vick Smalls, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The collision took place on U.S. Highway 21 (Trask Parkway) near Bruce K. Smalls Drive, with authorities estimating the time of the accident to be between 8 p.m. Saturday and 6 a.m. Sunday.
According to reports, a blue Ford truck or SUV is believed to be the vehicle involved in the collision. The SCHP has narrowed down the suspect vehicle to possibly being a 1996-2004 Ford F150, a 1997-1999 Ford F250, or a 1997-2002 Ford Expedition. Witnesses reported that the vehicle has noticeable damage to the passenger side front headlight.
Both Smalls and the vehicle were traveling south on U.S. Highway 21 when the collision occurred. The exact circumstances concerning the incident are still under investigation, and no flyers have been issued by the SCHP requesting public assistance in identifying the suspect vehicle. Local residents who may have information are encouraged to contact the SCHP at 843-953-6010 or 1-800-768-1501.
Recent Trends in Traffic Fatalities
This incident marks the ninth and tenth known traffic fatalities in Beaufort County this year, continuing a troubling trend in the area. Notably, U.S. Highway 21 has been identified as one of the most dangerous roadways in the county, evident by the number of collisions that occur on it.
The Location of the Incident
The collision took place slightly north of the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, a notable feature in the area. Given the time of day when the accident occurred, visibility conditions may have played a role. However, investigators are still working to determine the precise details of the incident.
Community Safety Concerns
As investigations proceed, community members are reminded of the importance of road safety, especially for cyclists. With the rising number of traffic fatalities, local officials are likely to face increased scrutiny regarding roadway safety measures and the need for public awareness and education campaigns.
The SCHP continues its inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Smalls’ death in hopes of identifying the driver responsible for this tragic incident. In the coming days, more information may be released as investigators gather evidence and seek cooperation from the public.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bicyclist Dies in Beaufort County Hit-and-Run Incident
Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Life of Bicyclist in Beaufort
Ongoing Investigation Following Fatal Hit-and-Run In Beaufort
Investigation Underway for Fatal Pedestrian Crash in Beaufort County
Beaufort Students Shine at University of South Carolina Beaufort
Tragic Boat Crash in Skull Creek Claims Two Lives
Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Life of USC Student
Settlement Reached in Beaufort County Wrongful Death Case
Tragic Motorcycle Accident Claims Life in Beaufort
Motorcyclist Dies in Beaufort Crash on U.S. 21
Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Live 5 News
- Island Packet
- WTOC
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: Traffic Collision
- Google Search: Beaufort County hit-and-run
- Google Scholar: traffic fatalities South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Accident
- Google News: Beaufort County hit-and-run
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.
