News Summary
A fatal collision on Sunset Boulevard in Lexington, SC, claimed the life of 70-year-old Margie Hayden Cook, leaving the community heartbroken. The tragic incident took place near a shopping center while she was pulling out of the parking lot. Another driver was hospitalized but sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The Lexington Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event which serves as a reminder of road safety.
Tragic Collision on Sunset Boulevard: Community in Mourning
Lexington, SC – A small yet heart-wrenching incident unfolded near downtown Lexington on Tuesday, April 1, when a fatal collision took the life of a beloved local resident. The unfortunate event took place around noon in the 5100 block of Sunset Boulevard, right outside the busy Lexington Pavilion shopping center.
The police quickly sprang into action, temporarily closing several lanes on Sunset Boulevard to ensure first responders could manage the scene safely. Sadly, the collision resulted in the death of a 70-year-old woman named Margie Hayden Cook. Margie, a resident of nearby Pelion, was in the midst of pulling out of the shopping center parking lot when her vehicle was unexpectedly struck by another car traveling westbound on Sunset Boulevard.
Tragically, Margie sustained injuries from which she could not recover, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. This incident has left her friends and family, as well as the local community, in deep sorrow as they reflect on the loss of a vibrant and cherished individual.
Another Driver Hospitalized
The other driver involved in the collision was taken to a nearby hospital; fortunately, their injuries were classified as non-life-threatening. This provides a small comfort amidst the tragedy, as it could have been much worse. Along with Margie’s passing, there were no other reported injuries from the incident.
As the investigations continue, the Lexington Police Department is diligently looking into the details of the case to understand what may have led to this unfortunate event. With the right resources and dedication to uncovering the facts, they hope to provide answers to the community and those affected by this accident.
Traffic Disruptions in the Area
The collision not only impacted the lives of those directly involved but also caused a significant disruption on Sunset Boulevard. Commuters found themselves navigating detours around Corley Mill Road while police worked at the scene. Fortunately, traffic began to flow more freely again, with lanes reopening just before 1:05 PM.
A Stark Reminder of Road Safety
This tragic incident is a somber reminder of the dangers that can unfold on South Carolina’s roadways. Recent statistics paint a concerning picture, marking at least 158 fatalities in the state in 2025 alone, leading to an alarming total of 948 deaths in 2024 from road accidents. In Lexington County specifically, there have been at least seven fatalities in 2025, while the previous year saw 50 deaths attributed to road crashes.
The data reflects the reality that accidents can happen to anyone, at any time, and emphasizes the critical need for drivers to remain vigilant while on the road. Whether it’s in the bustling streets of downtown Lexington or quiet suburban neighborhoods, safe driving practices are essential for protecting lives.
Grieving a Local Icon
As the community begins to mourn the loss of Margie Hayden Cook, it’s important to remember the legacy she leaves behind. Family and friends will surely come together to celebrate her life, sharing stories and heartfelt memories that capture the essence of the person she was—a loving resident whose presence brightened the lives of those around her.
In moments like this, communities often rally together, supporting each other through collective grief and reflecting on what they can do to prevent future tragedies on the road. As we process this loss, let’s hold our loved ones close and take to heart the importance of safe driving.
The investigation into this fatal collision remains ongoing, as Lexington Police continue to gather information and insights regarding this heartbreaking event.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX
- Wikipedia: Sunset Boulevard
- WIS TV
- Google Search: Lexington SC traffic accidents
- ABC Columbia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
- The State
- Google News: Lexington collision
- SW Lex Ledger
- Google Scholar: Road safety accidents South Carolina
