Lexington Community in Mourning After Devastating Road Accident
Lexington, S.C. — The local community of Lexington is grappling with a tragedy that struck Tuesday night, taking away two of its residents. A high school teen and a respected retired firefighter lost their lives in a heartbreaking accident off Kyzer Rd.
Road Crash on Kyzer Rd. Claims Two Lives
Around 10 PM Tuesday, 63-year old Kevin Collins, a retired firefighter, was struck by a motorcycle while walking back from his mailbox across the street. The young motorcyclist, 17-year old James Ely, was a student at the local White Knoll High School.
Alarming news about the fatal incident rattled the neighborhood, stirring a pall of deep sadness and shock. Both Collins and Ely were pronounced dead at the scene, leaving the community grief-stricken and in shock.
Collins’ Neighbor Shares His Personal Turmoil
Chris Harrington, Collins’ neighbor, found himself lost for words when describing the incident. “He was a very nice gentleman. We loved to talk. He was very talkative, he loved to tell you about his firefighter career which was really cool to listen to,” Harrington stated, expressing his deep sorrow over Collins’ sudden demise.
Harrington also provided details about the immediate aftermath of the accident, painting a picture of a neighborhood plunged into chaos and confusion. “Ambulances and firetrucks, police cars lined up as far as almost in front of my house, and you could not see anything. No one was saying anything. All of us – my neighbors next to me, across from me – we were all kind of like ‘what’s going on’?” he recalled.
A Stricken Community Remembers Its Own
The community of Lexington is reeling under the loss of two of its own. James Ely was remembered by his peers as an enthusiastic student and a well-liked member of White Knoll High School. His loss has left a deep void in the student community.
Collins, on the other hand, was a retired veteran firefighter, who had dedicated his life to the service of the Lexington County. His neighbors remember him as a friendly and companionable soul who was always shared intriguing stories about his firefighting career with relationships built over countless shared experiences throughout his long-standing service to the community.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. While one passenger on the motorbike survived with minor injuries, the accident serves as a harsh reminder of the fragility of life, and the importance of road safety. As Lexington grieves the loss of its own, the community stands unified in sorrow, offering support and condolences to the families of the deceased.
