A quiet Friday morning turned tragic for Marlboro County when 27-year-old Diante Adams lost his life in a single-vehicle crash along Highway 385 near Bennettsville. Coroner De’Aron Smith confirmed Adams was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency crews arrived and found him unresponsive.
Authorities say the vehicle collision occurred on a stretch of rural road that links remote parts of the county. Dispatch received word of a serious crash, and first responders came upon Adams and immediately attempted life-saving measures. Despite their efforts, they were unable to revive him.
At this time, no definitive cause for the crash has been made public. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is assisting the Marlboro County Coroner’s Office in investigating the circumstances. Officials aim to piece together speed, road conditions, vehicle condition, and any potential contributing factors. Preliminary findings are expected to emerge in the days ahead.
The news has hit the Bennettsville community hard. Friends describe Adams as driven and kind, someone full of promise. On social media, tributes have poured in: memories, prayers, disbelief. Many speak of heartbreak as loved ones try to reckon with the loss and support each other during an unimaginable time.
In reminders to the public, law enforcement agencies emphasize the importance of cautious driving on rural routes—especially during early hours when light is low, and conditions can mask hazards. They urge all motorists to stay alert, reduce speed, and avoid distractions.
The investigation remains open. Anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information is strongly encouraged to reach out to the South Carolina Highway Patrol or Marlboro County Coroner’s Office to assist in clarifying what led to this fatal collision.
