By Crash News Writer 
Aiken, South Carolina (June 29, 2026) – A 19 year old utility worker was killed and another worker was seriously injured early Friday after a hit and run crash in a work zone in Aiken. The fatal accident occurred shortly after 5:45 a.m. on June 26 at the intersection of Rutland Drive and Northland Boulevard.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, investigators said an unidentified vehicle was traveling west on Rutland Drive when it struck two contract utility workers who were working in the area before leaving the scene. Emergency responders arrived and pronounced one worker dead at the scene at 6:27 a.m. The victim was later identified as 19 year old Billy H. Norris of Chesnee.
The second worker was transported by Aiken County Emergency Medical Services to Wellstar MCG Health as a trauma alert for treatment of serious injuries. Authorities later announced that Charles Blase Engasser of Aiken turned himself in to Aiken Public Safety and was booked into the Aiken County Detention Center on a charge of hit and run involving a fatality.
The Aiken County Coroner’s Office and the Aiken Department of Public Safety continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based upon preliminary information released by investigating authorities and may be updated as additional evidence becomes available. Readers may also review frequently asked questions in South Carolina for additional information regarding accident investigations and legal procedures.
The investigation remains active, and additional information, including autopsy findings and court proceedings, may become available as officials continue their review.
Families seeking additional assistance after a fatal collision may also review accident resources in South Carolina for valuable guidance and support.
The information contained in this article is provided solely for informational purposes and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All facts are based on public reports available at the time of publication and remain subject to change as additional information becomes available. Readers are encouraged to seek qualified legal counsel if they have been involved in a similar incident. Learn more by reading our disclaimer.
If your family has lost a loved one in a fatal hit and run accident, contact an experienced South Carolina personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and available options.