News Summary
A boating accident on Lake Greenwood resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to two others, with felony charges filed against the driver of one vessel. The incident occurred when a Yamaha boat collided with an Alumacraft jon boat, leading to a severe investigation by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Community members have shown support for the victims’ families, highlighting the importance of safe boating practices.
Lake Greenwood, South Carolina – A tragic boating accident on Lake Greenwood early Sunday morning claimed the lives of two individuals and left two others injured, leading to felony charges against the driver of one of the vessels involved. The incident occurred at approximately 1:42 a.m. EDT on July 6, 2025, and is currently under investigation by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).
The collision involved an Alumacraft jon boat carrying five individuals and a Yamaha boat with two occupants. SCDNR officers reported that they witnessed the Yamaha boat, operated by 37-year-old Allen Sidney Benware Jr. III, traveling without the required navigation lights. Officers were preparing to intercept the Yamaha boat when it unexpectedly struck the Alumacraft from behind.
As a result of the crash, two passengers from the Alumacraft, identified as 23-year-old Thomas Chandler Davis and Abby Katherine Davis, both from Laurens County, were pronounced dead at the scene. A third passenger from the same vessel was ejected during the collision but was quickly rescued by responding officers and suffered no serious injuries. Another passenger was taken to a local hospital for treatment and has since been released.
Subsequent field sobriety tests revealed that Benware was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. Following this discovery, he was charged with two counts of felony boating under the influence, a serious offense that underscores the dangers of operating a vessel while impaired.
The SCDNR has commenced a comprehensive investigation, which includes interviewing witnesses, reconstructing the sequence of events leading up to the crash, and securing both boats as evidence. Forensic autopsies for the deceased individuals are also planned to determine the specifics surrounding their deaths.
In the aftermath of the accident, community members around Lake Greenwood have come together to express their condolences and support for the families and friends of the victims. The incident has sparked renewed conversations about the importance of safety on the water, particularly regarding the role of alcohol consumption.
SCDNR officials highlighted that this incident serves as a crucial reminder of the dangers associated with drinking while boating. They strongly encourage boaters to designate a sober skipper before heading out, emphasizing that such practices can help prevent tragedies on the water.
This unfortunate event not only affects the victims’ families but also raises awareness within the community about boating safety regulations and the necessary precautions needed when navigating waterways. Investigators continue to gather information and provide updates as the investigation unfolds, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina
- Wikipedia: Boating Safety
- WYFF4
- Google Search: Lake Greenwood boating accident 2025
- Index Journal
- Google Scholar: Boating Under Influence Accidents
- ABC Columbia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating
- GoLaurens
- Google News: Lake Greenwood boating
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
