July 30, 2025

Greenwood Man Sentenced to 20 Years for DUI Fatality

News Summary

Robert Charles Regan, a 36-year-old from Greenwood, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after being convicted of DUI resulting in the death of 85-year-old Army veteran David Rearden. The fatal crash occurred during a police pursuit following Regan’s erratic driving and subsequent flight from authorities. With a blood-alcohol content exceeding the legal limit, Regan’s reckless actions have drawn attention to the dangers of impaired driving and the need for harsher DUI penalties in the community.

Greenwood – Robert Charles Regan, a 36-year-old man from Greenwood, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison due to a fatal DUI crash that claimed the life of 85-year-old Army veteran, David Rearden. Regan pleaded guilty to charges of felony DUI resulting in death and failure to stop for blue lights resulting in death, following the tragic incident that occurred in December 2023.

The incident unfolded when police officers attempted to pull Regan over on the S.C. Highway 72 bypass after observing his erratic driving. Once stopped, Regan was informed that he was suspected of DUI and subsequently fled the scene, leading officers on a high-speed chase. As authorities pursued him, Regan drove aggressively between vehicles at speeds reaching 68 mph in a 35 mph zone.

Regan’s reckless driving culminated in a collision with Rearden’s SUV on the driver’s side at the intersection of Laurel Avenue. Following the crash, Rearden sustained critical injuries and later succumbed to those injuries while being transported to the hospital.

After the impact, Regan left the scene of the accident, continuing to evade law enforcement. During his flight, he collided with at least one police vehicle before being brought to a stop and arrested. At the time of his arrest, Regan’s blood-alcohol content was measured at .109, exceeding the legal limit for driving.

In a court ruling, the judge mandated that Regan serve 20 years in prison, followed by a 10-year probation period. Under state law, he is required to serve at least 85% of his sentence, equating to a minimum of 17 years, before he is eligible for parole.

The case has garnered attention due to the severe impact on Rearden’s family and the community. Regan’s actions have been described as devastating, highlighting the dangers posed by impaired driving, particularly when it results in a loss of life. The prosecution emphasized the need for accountability in cases involving DUI offenses, as they greatly affect individuals and families beyond the immediate victims.

David Rearden, a decorated Army veteran, was well-respected in his community. His unexpected death has left a profound sense of sorrow among friends and relatives, who have come forward to speak about his contributions and dedication to service throughout his life. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the serious consequences that can occur when individuals make the reckless choice to drive under the influence of alcohol.

The aftermath of this tragic event has reignited discussions surrounding DUI laws and public safety initiatives. Many community members are advocating for harsher penalties for DUI offenders in an effort to prevent similar incidents in the future. The case is not only a legal matter but also a pivotal moment for awareness regarding the repercussions of driving while impaired.