Tragic Accident Claims Life in Lexington
Lexington, South Carolina – A tragic car accident occurred early Tuesday morning, leaving the community in shock. Nita Lynn Regino, a 52-year-old resident of Lexington, lost her life in a heartbreaking incident that has become a reminder of the dangers on our roads.
The Incident
The accident took place around 7:30 a.m. at the intersection of Longview Street and Boiling Springs Road, as two vehicles collided. Master Trooper William Bennett of the South Carolina Highway Patrol reported that Regino was driving her 2019 Chevrolet sedan northbound on Longview Street. As she made a turn westbound onto Boiling Springs Road, her vehicle was struck by a 2009 Chevrolet pickup truck that was traveling west.
Due to the impact of the collision, the pickup truck veered off to the left side of the road and landed in a ditch, while Regino’s car drifted off to the right, also crashing into a ditch. Sadly, Regino was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving friends and family heartbroken.
The Driver’s Condition
The driver of the pickup truck sustained injuries and was immediately transported to Lexington Medical Center. While they are currently receiving treatment, details about their condition are still being gathered. Notably, both drivers were the only individuals in their respective vehicles, and, fortunately, no other injuries were reported.
Despite the tragic outcome, it’s worth mentioning that Regino was wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash, as confirmed by the Lexington County Coroner, Margaret Fisher. However, it’s still unclear whether the pickup truck driver was using a seatbelt during the accident.
Community Impact
This incident has hit home hard for many in Lexington, a city that has seen a troubling uptick in traffic fatalities. According to the state Department of Public Safety, 689 people have lost their lives on South Carolina roads in just the first nine months of 2024. In comparison, the recorded fatalities for the entirety of 2023 reached 1,030 individuals, showcasing an alarming trend that community leaders are eager to address.
Specifically, Lexington County has recorded at least 35 fatalities this year, with numbers reflecting a slightly lower count of 45 deaths in 2023. The Highway Patrol is actively investigating this latest incident to determine the factors that contributed to this devastating crash.
Moving Forward
The Lexington community is coming together during this difficult time, with many residents expressing their condolences and support for Regino’s family. In the wake of the tragedy, it serves as a vital reminder for everyone to practice safe driving and be aware of our surroundings on the road.
As investigations continue, officials are working diligently to update the public with accurate information. The heartache felt by friends and family will linger, but the hope is that through increased awareness and improved safety measures, such tragic events can be reduced in the future.
Please stay tuned for further updates as this situation evolves. If you’re in the Lexington area, consider joining local efforts to promote safer roads and remembrance for those we’ve lost.
