YEMASSEE, S.C. – A devastating multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 95 has claimed the lives of a father and son from Florida, leaving a community in mourning and authorities continuing a complex investigation.
William Britt, 68, and his son Patrick Britt, 30, both of Jacksonville, Florida, were tragically killed in the massive pileup that occurred around 4:45 p.m. on Tuesday, just north of the Yemassee town limits. According to Colleton County Coroner Richard Harvey, both men were traveling in the same southbound vehicle and were pronounced dead at the scene.
The crash involved a total of 13 vehicles, including cars, trucks, and commercial vehicles, according to Cpl. Nick Pye of the South Carolina Highway Patrol. First responders described a chaotic scene, as four people were trapped inside mangled vehicles, including the Britts, and required extrication by emergency crews.
In all, more than two dozen individuals were treated at the scene, and approximately 10 people were transported to local hospitals for further care. The extent of the injuries among survivors has not yet been released.
The incident brought traffic to a complete standstill, with all southbound lanes of I-95 closed until around 3 a.m. Wednesday. Emergency officials said the wreck occurred amid a severe thunderstorm that brought near-zero visibility to the area, complicating both driving conditions and the emergency response. Due to the dangerous weather, medical helicopters were unable to reach the scene.
The crash is under active investigation by multiple agencies, including the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP), South Carolina State Transport Police, and the S.C. Department of Public Safety’s Multi-Disciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT), which specializes in thorough accident reconstructions and in-depth traffic collision analysis.
As the investigation continues, the loss of William and Patrick Britt is being felt deeply by the Jacksonville community and beyond. Their sudden passing in this tragic accident is a reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly lives can change on the road.
Friends, loved ones, and community members are invited to remember William and Patrick for their bond, their love for one another, and the lives they lived. Funeral arrangements are forthcoming.
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