Aiken Man Dies in Early Morning Semi-Truck Crash
Aiken, South Carolina – A tragic accident occurred over the weekend, resulting in the death of a Barnwell County man. The incident took place on Saturday morning around 7:24 a.m., when Larry Priester, age 38, lost control of his semi tractor-trailer on Edgefield Highway, near Old Friar Road.
Investigation Underway
The Aiken County Coroner’s Office and the South Carolina Highway Patrol are leading the investigation into the crash. According to a statement from Aiken County Coroner Darryl Ables, the authorities were notified of the accident shortly after it happened. Emergency medical teams responded quickly to the scene, but unfortunately, Priester was pronounced dead at 8:30 a.m.
The specifics surrounding the circumstances of the crash are still unclear, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine the cause of the crash and whether any factors contributed to the accident.
Autopsy Scheduled
Authorities have stated that an autopsy will be performed on Priester’s body in Newberry as part of the investigation process. This will help to gather more information regarding his cause of death and any other medical factors that could have played a role in the crash.
Community Reaction
Residents in Barnwell County and nearby areas have been affected by the news of Priester’s passing. Community members have expressed their condolences and shared their shock at the unexpected event. Local officials have urged drivers to practice caution and prioritize safety while on the roads.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safe driving, especially when operating large vehicles such as semi-trucks. Authorities continue to encourage motorists to remain vigilant while driving and to follow traffic regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Further Information
The South Carolina Highway Patrol has advised that anyone with additional information related to the crash should reach out to law enforcement. This could help provide more clarity on what exactly happened that morning.
Priester was a resident of Barnwell County, which is located southeast of Aiken County. The outpouring of support from the community highlights the close-knit nature of the region, where such incidents are deeply felt by locals.
As the investigation unfolds, updates are expected to be released, providing more insight into the cause of the crash and the events leading up to it. The Aiken County community is left mourning the loss of one of their own, while also reflecting on the shared responsibility of road safety among all drivers.
As more details emerge, community members are encouraged to stay informed and to remember the importance of safety while on the road, particularly when navigating busy highways.
In the meantime, families and friends impacted by this tragedy are receiving support from the local community as they begin to process the loss of their loved one.