Tragic Road Accident Kills Lexington Man and Teen Motorcyclist
A tragic accident unfolded in Lexington, South Carolina, when a man was hit and killed by a 17-year-old motorcyclist while crossing the road to check his mail. The motorcyclist also succumbed to injuries sustained from the incident.
The Incident
On the evening of Tuesday, Aug.21, 2024 at around 10 p.m., 63-year-old Kevin Scott Collins was crossing the street at the 200 block of Kyzer Road after checking his mailbox. At the same time, the teenage motorcyclist, known as James Leonard Ely III, was traveling west on Kyzer Road. The motorcycle collision occurred at this event, leading to fatal consequences for both the pedestrian and the motorcyclist.
Fatal Consequences and Further Injuries
A news release from the Lexington County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Ely had a passenger traveling with him on the motorcycle, who was consequently transported to a local hospital with minor injuries. Precautionary measures had been in place, with Ely wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. Despite this, both Collins and Ely were declared dead at the scene of the crash.
Investigations Underway
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating the circumstances of the tragic crash, while details regarding the possible cause of the accident remain unclear. Preliminary reports suggest neither speed nor substance use was a factor, leaving investigators to assess a range of other possible causes.
Legal Aspects
In South Carolina, teenagers are eligible for a beginners motorcycle license from the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) by the age of 15. However, spokespersons for the DMV emphasize the importance of safety, proper training, and adherence to all road rules for all new and experienced motorcyclists.
Seeking More Information
As the investigations continue, efforts to obtain further details regarding the accident are ongoing. The community and families of both the victims anxiously await more information on the tragic incident.
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has any information that could assist investigators is encouraged to come forward and contact local authorities.
Community Response
The unexpected tragedy has shaken the local community, prompting calls for increased safety measures on local roads, particularly for pedestrians and motorcyclists. Many residents have extended their sympathies to the families of the victims and have shown support through various community initiatives.
This incident serves as a stark reminder for all road users to exercise due diligence in ensuring personal safety and that of others while on the road.
Remember, your actions on the road can have far-reaching consequences, affecting not just your life, but also the lives of others. Ensure you observe all road safety measures at all times.
