Benjamin Winston Car Accident, Passenger Killed in I-26 Crash, Death Obituary: Community Mourns Tragic loss
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into a fatal crash on Interstate 26 that claimed the life of a North Carolina man and left three others injured early Saturday morning near St. Matthews.
According to authorities, the crash occurred around 12:20 a.m. near the 133-mile marker on eastbound I-26 in Calhoun County. Troopers said a 2025 Honda CR-V carrying four occupants was traveling eastbound when the vehicle suddenly left the right side of the roadway and collided with a concrete barrier.
The Calhoun County Coroner’s Office later identified the victim as Benjamin Winston, 35, of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Officials confirmed that Winston, who was riding in the front passenger seat, died at the scene as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.
Three other occupants inside the Honda CR-V survived and were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Authorities have not publicly released details regarding the extent of their injuries or their current conditions.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene following reports of the collision, prompting a significant overnight response along the interstate. Troopers, firefighters, and medical personnel worked for hours to assist the injured, investigate the crash site, and safely clear debris from the roadway.
At this stage of the investigation, officials have not determined what caused the SUV to leave the roadway. Investigators with the South Carolina Highway Patrol continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, including roadway conditions, possible driver factors, and any additional evidence that may help explain how the incident unfolded.
The sudden loss of Benjamin Winston has left family members, friends, and loved ones grieving a life taken far too soon. While authorities continue their investigation, those who knew him are left mourning not only the tragedy itself but also the absence of someone who was an important part of their lives.
Fatal crashes like this serve as painful reminders of how quickly lives can change on the roadway and how devastating the consequences can be for families and communities alike. As the investigation moves forward, officials say additional information may be released when it becomes available.
For now, the thoughts of many remain with Benjamin Winston’s loved ones and with the three injured survivors as they continue their recovery in the aftermath of the crash.