BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — Authorities have identified the victim in a multi-vehicle collision that claimed one life Friday afternoon on U.S. Highway 17A. According to the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office, the deceased has been identified as 24-year-old Aria Lawrence of Andrews, South Carolina.
The tragic crash occurred shortly before 4:30 p.m. on October 24, involving three vehicles near Pear Tree Lane.
According to preliminary findings from the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP), Lawrence was driving a Chevrolet sedan northbound on U.S. 17A when the car made contact with a Ford truck traveling south. The impact caused the Chevrolet to cross the center line, where it then collided with a Freightliner truck.
Emergency personnel from multiple agencies responded immediately to assist those involved. Despite extensive life-saving efforts, Lawrence was pronounced deceased at the scene. The drivers of the Ford and Freightliner were not injured, officials confirmed.
Investigators with the Highway Patrol’s Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) were called to the site to conduct a detailed reconstruction and determine the cause of the collision. Authorities say no definitive contributing factors, such as weather or mechanical failure, have yet been confirmed, though the investigation remains active.
The Berkeley County Coroner’s Office has notified Lawrence’s family and extended heartfelt condolences, thanking emergency responders for their quick action and professionalism at the scene.
U.S. Highway 17A was temporarily closed for several hours while crews worked to clear debris and document evidence. Traffic resumed later that evening once the area was deemed safe.
Community members in Andrews and surrounding towns have expressed deep sorrow following news of the loss. Friends and loved ones described Aria Lawrence as a kind, hardworking, and compassionate young woman with a bright future ahead. Tributes have poured in across social media, reflecting the profound grief felt throughout the community.
Authorities are reminding motorists to drive carefully, particularly along major routes like U.S. 17A, where passenger cars and large trucks often share the road. Officials continue to emphasize the importance of maintaining safe speeds, avoiding distractions, and practicing defensive driving.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information is urged to contact the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Eyewitness accounts and surveillance footage can play a vital role in helping investigators determine what led to the deadly collision.
As the investigation continues, the Berkeley County community remains united in mourning the loss of Aria Lawrence — a life taken far too soon. Her passing serves as a somber reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike and the importance of vigilance and safety on the road.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol, with assistance from the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office, continues to investigate the incident. Additional updates will be released as more information becomes available.