By Crash News Writer 
Darlington County, SC (August 28, 2025) – A 67-year-old Hartsville woman lost her life Wednesday morning in a crash involving a tractor-trailer. The Darlington County Coroner identified the victim as Deborah Smothers.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the accident occurred around 9 a.m. on August 27 when Smothers attempted to cross U.S. Highway 15 from Wesley Chapel Road. Her vehicle collided with an oncoming tractor-trailer. Emergency responders pronounced Smothers deceased at the scene. Coroner Todd Hardee later confirmed her death was ruled accidental.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
The information in this report comes from preliminary findings and may be updated as investigations continue. For further clarity, review frequently asked questions in South Carolina.
- The victim has been identified as 67-year-old Deborah Smothers of Hartsville.
- No charges have been announced at this stage of the investigation.
- Drivers in the area are urged to use caution when crossing or entering major highways.
Additional accident resources in South Carolina are available for families navigating the aftermath of fatal crashes. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please review our disclaimer for more.
Those impacted by this tragedy should consult with a qualified South Carolina personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to protect their rights and explore available legal options.