ALLENDALE & EDGEFIELD COUNTIES, S.C. — Two Dead, Others Injured in Separate Sunday Crashes on U.S. 301 and U.S. 378
Tragedy struck South Carolina roads on Sunday, June 29, 2025, as two separate car crashes claimed the lives of two individuals and left others injured in Allendale and Edgefield counties. The fatal incidents, occurring just minutes apart, have left families in mourning and communities reeling from the devastating losses.
Allendale County: One Dead, Two Injured in Early Morning Crash in Ulmer
Authorities with the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) responded to a single-vehicle collision in the town of Ulmer early Sunday morning. The crash occurred on U.S. Highway 301 near Wells Branch Road at approximately 7:46 a.m.
According to troopers, a 2018 Honda Accord traveling northbound on U.S. 301 veered off the left side of the road and struck a tree. The force of the impact caused significant damage to the vehicle. Inside were three occupants: the driver and two passengers.
Emergency responders pronounced the driver dead at the scene. The two passengers suffered injuries and were transported by EMS to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their conditions have not yet been made public.
As of Monday morning, the identity of the deceased driver has not been released, pending notification of next of kin. The Allendale County Coroner’s Office is working in coordination with SCHP to confirm details surrounding the victim and the exact cause of the crash.
“Our hearts are with the families impacted by this tragic incident,” said a spokesperson for the Highway Patrol. “This is a sobering reminder of how quickly lives can be lost on our roads.”
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
Edgefield County: Woman Killed in Two-Vehicle Collision on U.S. 378
Just minutes after the Allendale crash, another fatal incident unfolded in Edgefield County. At approximately 8:00 a.m., a two-vehicle collision occurred at the intersection of U.S. 378 and Callison Highway, resulting in the death of 41-year-old Catalina Hernandez of Greenwood, South Carolina.
According to the Edgefield County Coroner’s Office, Hernandez was driving a 2012 Chevrolet Camaro southbound on Callison Highway when she entered the intersection. A 2022 Ford F-250, traveling east on U.S. 378, collided with the passenger side of her vehicle.
After impact, the Camaro veered off the road and struck an embankment, causing severe damage. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Hernandez was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:05 a.m.
The Ford F-250 was carrying two occupants, both of whom escaped injury, officials say. No further details have been released about their identities.
The crash is under investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol, who are working to determine contributing factors and whether charges may be filed.
Communities in Mourning, Officials Urge Caution
The tragic crashes have left a wake of grief across two counties and sparked renewed calls for caution behind the wheel.
“Our roads saw a terrible day yesterday,” said one local law enforcement official. “Two families are now facing the unimaginable. We urge every driver to slow down, avoid distractions, and stay alert.”
In both cases, the South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to investigate, and officials have not ruled out contributing factors such as speed, road conditions, or driver impairment.
As the state heads into the summer travel season, troopers are reminding residents and visitors alike to prioritize driver safety, particularly in rural areas where high speeds and narrow roads can increase the risk of deadly outcomes.
In Loving Memory
- The identity of the driver in the Ulmer crash is expected to be released soon. Grieving loved ones have already begun to gather and offer condolences, with community members rallying to support the injured passengers.
- Catalina Hernandez, described by friends as a loving mother, loyal friend, and hardworking woman, is being remembered for her vibrant spirit and devotion to her family. Plans for a memorial service are expected to be announced in the coming days.
South Carolina Highway Patrol asks that anyone who may have witnessed either crash or has relevant dashcam footage to come forward as investigations continue.
🕯️ Our deepest condolences go out to the families and communities impacted by these tragedies.
