Tragic Incident on Highway 178 in Lexington: A Community in Shock
LEXINGTON — A devastating accident on Highway 178 has left the local community reeling after the tragic death of a 74-year-old man, Robert Barrs. Barrs was struck while trying to cross the highway on the evening of October 24, leading to an outpouring of grief and disbelief among residents.
A Night of Heartbreak
On that fateful evening, around 7:17 p.m., Barrs was involved in an accident that would ultimately claim his life. According to the Lexington County Coroner, Margaret Mitchell, video surveillance revealed that a vehicle first hit Barrs, and alarmingly, 34 other vehicles passed by him within those crucial minutes — some even striking him again before help arrived, nearly 20 minutes later.
This tragic series of events unfolded just north of Pelion, where Barrs lived. He was pronounced dead on the scene, a heart-wrenching development that has left his family and friends in mourning.
The Search for Answers
As investigations continue, Chief Deputy Coroner Chandler Clardy reported that the first vehicle that struck Barrs is believed to be the one that ultimately caused his death, but sadly, that driver fled the scene. Authorities are now actively searching for a champagne-colored Chevrolet Impala manufactured between 2011 and 2013, which may have damage to the front or driver’s side.
Somewhere in the chaos, Barrs was hit again by an unspecified vehicle before being struck yet again by a 2009 Chevrolet sedan. It’s hard to fathom how such a terrible accident could take place, and it’s ignited conversations in the community about pedestrian safety.
Pedestrian Safety Concerns
This tragic event has raised alarms regarding the safety of pedestrians in South Carolina. A national study recently highlighted the dangers facing pedestrians in several metropolitan areas in the state. The Charleston/North Charleston area ranked ninth, while Columbia came in at number twelve for pedestrian fatalities. Experts point to the outdated street design in the U.S., which prioritizes quick vehicle movement over the safety of pedestrians.
The conversation about pedestrian safety is becoming more urgent. Just earlier this year, two women tragically lost their lives in Charleston after being hit by cars while walking. Incidents like these bring the issue into sharp focus, making clear that improvements are critical.
A Community Mourning
In the wake of Barrs’ passing, the emotional weight of the incident has gripped the local community. A post from the coroner’s office regarding Barrs’ death quickly went viral, receiving considerable engagement on social media, with over a hundred comments expressing disbelief at how many drivers passed him by before help was called. Many shared their condolences and personal stories, showing just how far-reaching the impact of this tragedy is.
People throughout Lexington are asking: What can we do to prevent such heartbreaking incidents from happening in the future? It’s a question on everyone’s mind, and one that local officials and community leaders will need to address promptly.
Moving Forward
The loss of Robert Barrs is not just a loss for his friends and family; it’s a reminder of the vulnerabilities that we all face every day. We must come together as a community to find solutions for pedestrian safety, ensuring that our roads are safe for everyone. As we mourn, let’s also advocate for safer streets, so that families can walk with a sense of security.
