By Crash News Writer 
Conway, SC (August 20, 2026) – Two Coastal Carolina University students suffered serious injuries after being struck in a hit-and-run crash near the university campus early Sunday. Conway police responded shortly after midnight on August 16 to Highway 544 near Elvington Loop.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the state agency handles highway safety and crash-related matters across South Carolina. Conway police handled the investigation into this incident and reported that both injured students were transported to a hospital for further care.
Police identified 17-year-old Mauricio Palafox-Correa in connection with the crash. Authorities said he was charged with two counts of DUI and two counts of hit-and-run resulting in great bodily injury. The available report did not identify the vehicle involved or provide an updated condition for either injured student.
The crash occurred as Coastal Carolina University continues planning a pedestrian overpass across Highway 544 near Founders Drive. University officials have said the project is moving through land acquisition, state approval, and final design steps.
Protect Your Rights After an Accident Today
Serious pedestrian crashes can result in substantial medical expenses, extended treatment, missed work or school, and long-term physical and financial consequences. Taking legal action promptly can help injured people protect important evidence and understand the insurance coverage and legal remedies that could apply to their circumstances.
South Carolina residents can review car accident laws in South Carolina for information about legal issues that can arise following a serious roadway accident. Preserving photographs, witness information, medical documentation, insurance correspondence, and other records can be especially important after a hit-and-run.
Someone searching for a car accident near me may also want to request the car accident report and maintain copies of medical bills and treatment records. After a car accident near Conway, injured pedestrians may face questions involving insurance coverage, medical costs, lost income, and possible legal claims.
A car accident near me involving an alleged hit-and-run can present additional challenges because investigators may need to establish the identity of the driver and reconstruct what occurred. Those researching a car accident near Conway should consider preserving all available evidence and obtaining the car accident report when it becomes available. Speaking with an attorney early can also help an injured person understand deadlines and determine what documentation may be important.
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on preliminary information released by local authorities and may be updated as the investigation progresses. Readers seeking general information about accident claims and legal procedures can review frequently asked questions in South Carolina.
The identities of the two injured Coastal Carolina University students were not released in the available report. Police also had not provided an updated description of their medical conditions.
Authorities reported that Mauricio Palafox-Correa faces two counts of DUI and two counts of hit-and-run resulting in great bodily injury. Charges are allegations, and guilt must be determined through the legal process.
Information about road restrictions or other traffic impacts near Highway 544 should be confirmed through local authorities or traffic monitoring services. People seeking further guidance following a serious crash can also review accident resources in South Carolina.
The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports at the time of publication, and details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know has been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more with our disclaimer.
Anyone injured in a serious pedestrian or hit-and-run accident should consider calling an attorney as soon as possible to discuss available options and applicable deadlines. A South Carolina personal injury lawyer can review the circumstances and explain potential next steps.