News Summary
A tragic boat crash on Lake Greenwood has resulted in the deaths of a young couple, Thomas and Abby Davis, both 23. The collision involved two boats, with allegations of boating under the influence against the operator of one vessel. The local community is mourning their loss, highlighting the critical need for responsible boating practices.
Laurens, South Carolina – A tragic boat crash on Lake Greenwood claimed the lives of a young couple early Saturday morning, leading to criminal charges against the operator of the other vessel involved. The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on July 6, 2024, resulting in the deaths of 23-year-old Thomas Chandler Davis and 23-year-old Abby Katherine Davis, both from Laurens.
The couple, who were in a relationship but not related, succumbed to blunt force trauma as a result of the collision. The accident involved a crash between an Alumacraft boat, with five individuals onboard, and a Yamaha boat, carrying two individuals. Reports indicate that the Yamaha boat was operating without navigation lights when it struck the Alumacraft from behind, significantly contributing to the severity of the accident.
The operator of the Yamaha boat, Allen Benware Jr., has been charged with two counts of felony boating under the influence resulting in death and one count of watercraft violations. Following the incident, Benware was booked into the Laurens County Detention Center where he was also denied bond. Each boating under the influence (BUI) charge carries a minimum sentence of one year in prison and a possible fine of $10,000, with maximum potential penalties reaching 25 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
In addition to the fatalities, one passenger from the Alumacraft was ejected during the crash but was quickly rescued, while another passenger was hospitalized and has since been released. The incident is currently under investigation by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), which is looking into the circumstances surrounding the events leading up to the collision.
Witnesses reported seeing the Yamaha boat lacking proper navigation lights shortly before the crash, prompting SCDNR officers to prepare to intervene. The local community is now in mourning, with many residents expressing sorrow and support for the families affected by this tragedy.
The coroner has underscored the dangers associated with alcohol consumption while boating, attributing it as a contributing factor to many preventable tragedies. Nationwide statistics highlight the seriousness of the issue, as 92 people died last year from alcohol-related boating accidents, emphasizing the urgent need for safety measures and awareness.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers that exist on the water, particularly when alcohol is involved. The loss of Thomas and Abby Davis has shaken the Laurens community, bringing attention to the importance of safe boating practices and responsible operation of watercraft.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Boating Accident Claims Lives on Lake Greenwood
Tragic Boating Incident on Lake Greenwood Claims Two Lives
Lake Greenwood Incident Leads to Felony Charges after Fatal Crash
Boating Collision on Lake Greenwood Results in Two Fatalities
Boating Collision on Lake Greenwood Claims Two Lives
Fatal Boating Collision Claims Two Lives on Lake Greenwood
Tragic Boating Collision on Lake Greenwood Claims Two Lives
Tragic Boating Collision Claims Two Lives on Lake Greenwood
Tragic Boat Crash on Lake Greenwood Claims Lives
SCDNR Offers Free Boat Inspections Ahead of Memorial Day
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina
- Wikipedia: Boating Accidents
- The State
- Google Search: Lake Greenwood boat crash July 2024
- WYFF4
- Google Scholar: Boating Under the Influence Accidents
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating Safety
- Index Journal
- Google News: Boating Safety
- WSPA
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.
