Lexington Tragedy: Man and Teen Motorcyclist Dead in Late-Night Crash
A late-night tragedy occurred in Lexington, South Carolina, when a man checking his mail was hit by a teen motorcyclist. Both the pedestrian and the motorcyclist died from the impact.
The Fatal Accident
On Tuesday night around 10 PM, 63-year-old Kevin Scott Collins was crossing the 200 block of Kyzer Road following a routine mail check when a motorcycle, driven by 17-year-old James Leonard Ely III, struck him. According to the Lexington County Coroner’s office, both men were declared dead at the scene of the accident.
Ely, also from Lexington, was traveling west on Kyzer Road at the time of the accident. It was also reported that he had a passenger on the motorcycle who sustained minor injuries and was subsequently transported to a local hospital for treatment. Ely was wearing a helmet during the incident.
The Investigation
South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating this unfortunate accident. As per the regulations in South Carolina, teenagers as young as 15 can obtain a beginner’s motorcycle license from the Department of Motor Vehicles.
The investigation, which is currently in its initial stages, will likely focus on the circumstances of the crash. However, detailed information is expected to be released to the public upon completing the investigation.
Motorcycle Safety in South Carolina
In light of the tragic accident, it is critical to emphasize the importance of responsible motorcycle use, especially concerning underage drivers. The Department of Motor Vehicles strives to educate young motorcyclists about the potential hazards on the road and the significance of adhering to traffic rules.
As a basic safety measure, all riders and passengers are urged to wear helmets. Moreover, motorcycle drivers are instructed to maintain a safe distance from pedestrians and other vehicles, especially in residential areas.
Public Response
The news of the tragic accident has led to an outpouring of condolences in the neighborhood and online. Both families have requested privacy during this difficult time.