White Knoll High School Senior and Former Firefighter Tragically Perish in Crash

Lexington, S.C. – A tragic event unfolded in Lexington on Thursday, as a high school senior associated with the White Knoll High School and a retired fireman were declared dead at the scene of a shocking vehicular incident. 17-year-old James Leonard Ely III and 63-year-old Kevin Scott Collins met their untimely demise due to a car accident.

Incident Details

Investigations revealed that Ely was at the motorcycle’s helm, which crashed into Collins. A passenger accompanying Ely on the motorcycle was inflicted with minor injuries and has currently been hospitalized.

The crash occurred around 10 p.m. on Kyzer Road. Collins, who had been checking his mailbox, was crossing the road when hit by Ely, reported Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher. Ely had his helmet on at the time of the accident but succumbed to his injuries.

School and Community Response

White Knoll High School and district leaders are dedicating their efforts on providing support for Ely’s family and the affected students and teachers. Grief counselors and school psychologists form part of a crisis response team assigned to the school. Collaboration with Care Solace, a mental health care coordination service, provides additional support for students and family members, revealed the school district.

Neighbors Mourn the Loss

In the wake of this tragedy, people in the community share their sorrow. Kenny Miles, a neighbor of Collins, was heartbroken upon hearing the news. Miles expressed his disbelief at the unfortunate event stating, “By God, a grown person going to check his mail that’s all he was doing.” Chris Harrington, another local resident, shared his thoughts saying, “A young child, 17 years old that should not happen to him, nor should it happen to a gentlemen that is in his retirement, it’s sad either way.”

Investigations Underway

Authorities including the South Carolina Highway Patrol and the Lexington County Coroner are actively investigating the accident.

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