A calm Tuesday evening was turned to a moment of grief when they heard about the loss of Jessica Nicole Way, 31, of Alcolu, who died in a head-on collision on U.S. 52 near Butterbean Drive.
The length of the highway was getting dim as the sun set. At times like this, the neighbors feel deceptively peaceful. Authorities confirmed that a 2004 Honda SUV traveled eastward, suddenly crossed the center line, and struck the car Jessica was driving. Emergency officers got to the scene and noticed she was dead at the spot. The department of the Berkley County Coroner was able to confirm her identity.
The driver behind the Honda vehicle was rushed to the nearest hospital. Their status is yet to be disclosed. Initially, reports were mixed up, which motorist was in which vehicle, although officers were able to correct their mistakes. The deceased had been behind the wheel of the GMC when it was hit.
Her relatives described her as loving and steady, who always checks on others before herself. For countless people in Berkeley County, her tragic death made everyone heartbroken. People who were familiar with the road testified that the calm appearance often hides how dreadful the curve can be.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues the search for the driver error, as lightning conditions, or impairment could have played a role. As the town mourns, officers encouraged the drivers to stay conscious on rural highways, hoping they could save more lives.
