News Summary
A boating accident on Lake Greenwood resulted in the deaths of two recent graduates from Clemson University. The incident involved a collision between a Yamaha boat and an Alumacraft boat. The operator of the Yamaha boat faces felony charges for boating under the influence. The tragedy has prompted calls for greater awareness about boating safety and responsible practices on the water.
Lake Greenwood, South Carolina – A tragic boating incident on Lake Greenwood claimed the lives of two young individuals on Sunday morning, July 6, 2025. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) reported that the collision occurred at approximately 1:42 a.m., involving a Yamaha boat operated by 37-year-old Allen Sidney Benware Jr. III.
Allen Benware faces serious charges following the crash, including two counts of felony boating under the influence (BUI) leading to death and one count of violating watercraft regulations. Authorities determined he was under the influence after conducting a field sobriety test at the scene of the accident. Following his first court appearance, Benware was denied bond.
The victims of the tragic accident have been identified as Thomas Chandler Davis and Abby Katherine Davis, both 23 years old and recent graduates of Clemson University. The collision happened when the Yamaha boat struck an Alumacraft boat, which was carrying five people, from behind. The impact resulted in severe injuries for some occupants and immediate fatalities for the two young graduates.
Tragically, both Thomas and Abby were pronounced dead at the scene due to blunt-force trauma. Among the other occupants of the Alumacraft, two individuals sustained injuries; however, one was treated and has since been released from medical care. Notably, the Alumacraft boat had its navigation lights operating at the time of the crash, while the Yamaha boat lacked functioning lights, raising concerns about visibility and safety on the water.
The Laurens County coroner, Patti Canupp, highlighted the critical need for responsible boating practices and reiterated the dangers associated with operating any vehicle, including boats, while under the influence of alcohol. Her comments underscored the ongoing issue of alcohol as a leading cause of boating accidents in the United States. The tragedy serves not only as a stark reminder of the consequences of impaired boating but also stresses the importance of designating sober drivers in all vehicle types, whether on land or water.
In response to the incident, the SCDNR is thoroughly investigating the crash, which includes interviewing witnesses and employing advanced technology for evidence collection to determine the details surrounding the accident. Their investigation aims to provide clarity and accountability resulting from this heartbreaking event.
This incident holds great significance for the local community, particularly as the victims, Thomas and Abby Davis, were fresh graduates on the cusp of their future endeavors. Community members and authorities have expressed their condolences to the families impacted by the loss, recognizing the potential life paths of the young victims and the impact of their untimely deaths.
The deadly crash serves as a grave reminder of the perils of boating under the influence and reinforces the need for greater awareness and education concerning boating safety. As the summer season continues, it is crucial for boaters to understand the responsibilities that come with operating watercraft to prevent further tragedies like this from occurring.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina
- Wikipedia: Boating Safety
- The State
- Google Search: Lake Greenwood boating accident
- WYFF4
- Google Scholar: Boating Under the Influence
- WSPA
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating
- Index Journal
- Google News: Boating Accidents
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.
