Spartanburg County, S.C. — Early Wednesday morning, 31‑year‑old Dane Josephine Waddell, a new mother who had just welcomed a baby girl late last year, lost her life in a shocking hit‑and‑run crash that has left her community searching for answers. Deputies with the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office were called to a parking lot on Whitney Road just before 3:30 a.m. after someone reported a person down. When they arrived, Waddell was found unresponsive on the asphalt and was pronounced dead at 3:35 a.m. at the scene.
Family members described Waddell as full of life and joy, especially after the birth of her daughter in October 2025. The news of her death has rippled through her circle of loved ones, who are struggling to make sense of how someone so young and recently celebrating motherhood could be taken so abruptly.
Investigators believe Waddell was struck by a vehicle and then dragged, based on evidence collected at the scene. Law enforcement officials say the person who hit her did not stop, classifying the case as a hit‑and‑run. Security footage from nearby cameras helped identify the type of vehicle involved, though authorities have yet to locate the car or its driver.
The sheriff’s office has been combing through leads and reviewing video footage as part of their ongoing investigation. So far, no arrests have been made and officials have not released any description of a suspect. They are urging anyone with information to come forward to help piece together what happened that early morning.
Those close to Waddell say her warmth and excitement about becoming a mom made her passing especially heartbreaking. Neighbors and friends have shared memories of her laughter and kindness, painting a picture of someone loved deeply and missed already.
The Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office confirmed Waddell’s identity and time of death, and authorities continue to follow up on tips from the community. As the investigation continues, officials say even the smallest detail could be crucial in bringing answers and closure to her family.
Anyone with information related to the crash is asked to contact Spartanburg County Investigator Nick Federico at (864) 503‑4591. Calls can help investigators track down the hit‑and‑run driver and bring some measure of justice for Waddell’s grieving family.
