In the early hours of Sunday morning, 17-year-old George Hall Gomez Jr., of Leesville, was traveling southbound in the 1600 block of Jim Spence Road in Lexington County when his vehicle veered off the right side of the roadway and collided with a tree. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead from his injuries. He had been wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
The crash occurred around 5:25 a.m. on October 26, according to the office of Coroner Margaret Fisher. At this time, the South Carolina Highway Patrol and the Lexington County Coroner’s Office continue to investigate the circumstances of the wreck, and no further details have been released.
Friends, classmates and neighbors in the Leesville area have been expressing shock and sadness over George’s unexpected passing. Though young, he was remembered by those who knew him as a bright, caring presence who had life ahead of him. The community has been rallying around his family, sharing memories and condolences. (This aligns with the initial account you provided.)
According to the Coroner’s report, wearing his seatbelt confirms one piece of safety protocol was followed, yet the results were nonetheless devastating. Investigators will look into possible factors such as speed, road conditions, vehicle condition and time of day. The fact that the car left the roadway and struck a tree off of Jim Spence Road suggests a loss of control or unexpected event rather than a multi-vehicle collision.
George’s passing casts a spotlight on morning-hour single-vehicle crashes, which often involve drift off the road, obstacles like trees and limited witness information. For his loved ones and the community, this tragedy is deeply personal: a young life ended and many grieving in its wake.
His family continues to face the difficult days ahead and the broader community of Lexington County stands with them. Neighbors have shared their sorrow on social media and in person, remembering George for the personality he brought to the small town and the promise he carried.
As the investigation by the Highway Patrol and the Coroner’s Office proceeds, questions remain about what exactly triggered the vehicle to leave the road so early in the morning. But more than the unanswered questions, what stands out is the loss of a young life and the ripple effects in a close-knit community.
Our thoughts are with George Hall Gomez Jr.’s family, friends and all who knew him in this difficult time.
