By Crash News Writer 
Beaufort, SC (January 24, 2026) — A tragic series of collisions claimed four lives across Beaufort County during the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend, with fatal crashes reported in Bluffton, Lady’s Island, and Lobeco.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, Daryle Fitzgerald, 56, of Bluffton, lost his life on Saturday afternoon, January 17, after his Ford Mustang veered off Bluffton Parkway, struck a tree, and ejected him into the path of an oncoming SUV.
A second deadly crash occurred late Sunday night on U.S. 21 (Sea Island Parkway) near Eustis Landing Road. Authorities confirmed 17-year-old Amya Fields of Beaufort and 54-year-old Louis Carbonneau of St. Helena Island were both killed when a Subaru and a Honda collided head-on. Another teen was rushed to the hospital in critical condition after the Subaru caught fire upon impact.
In Lobeco on Monday evening, Scott McKeever, 48, of Bluffton, was fatally struck by a semi-truck while walking along U.S. 17 (Charleston Highway).
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After devastating incidents like these, families may face overwhelming emotional and financial burdens. Pursuing justice and compensation is a crucial step forward. Knowing your rights under car accident laws in South Carolina can help victims and their loved ones seek appropriate compensation for medical costs, funeral expenses, and more.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on early information from local authorities and may change as new findings are released.
- Names of additional parties involved have not been publicly disclosed as authorities work to notify families.
- Ongoing investigations may include toxicology reports and a review of driver responsibility. Additional updates will be provided as released.
- Motorists are urged to monitor travel routes as law enforcement continues to clear and investigate the affected areas.
Visit our page on accident resources in South Carolina for helpful tools following a serious accident.
For more guidance, check out our frequently asked questions in South Carolina section to understand what to expect next.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal or medical advice. All details are based on initial public reports. Readers are encouraged to contact a qualified attorney for advice tailored to their situation. Learn more with our disclaimer.
If you or a loved one were involved in a crash this weekend, do not wait. Call a South Carolina personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.