News Summary
A boating accident on Lake Greenwood resulted in the deaths of two passengers from an Alumacraft jon boat after a Yamaha boat struck them from behind. Multiple injuries were reported, and the driver of the Yamaha has been arrested for felony boating under the influence. The incident has raised concerns over impaired boating and safety regulations. Authorities are currently investigating the accident and collecting evidence.
Greenwood, South Carolina – Two individuals tragically lost their lives early Sunday morning following a boating collision on Lake Greenwood at approximately 1:42 a.m. The accident involved two vessels: an Alumacraft jon boat carrying five people and a Yamaha boat with two occupants. Reports indicate that the Yamaha boat struck the Alumacraft from behind.
Emergency responders declared two passengers from the Alumacraft dead at the scene. Additionally, two other passengers sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital, where one has since been discharged. A female passenger from the Alumacraft was ejected into the water during the accident but miraculously did not suffer any serious injuries and was rescued by responding officers.
The Alumacraft was reported to have fully functioning navigation lights at the time of the incident. Officials from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) clarified that their officers were not in pursuit of the Yamaha boat when the collision occurred. However, SCDNR officers had been conducting proactive safety operations and had observed the Yamaha traveling without “proper navigation lights” prior to the crash.
SCDNR officers witnessed the collision and were able to provide immediate life-saving assistance. The driver of the Yamaha, 37-year-old Allen Sidney Benware Jr. III, has been arrested and is facing two counts of felony boating under the influence (BUI) with great bodily injury. Following the incident, the investigation is ongoing, with authorities focusing on gathering evidence and conducting interviews with witnesses.
The Laurens County Coroner’s Office is involved in the investigation and will identify the deceased once notifications to next of kin have been made. Meanwhile, SCDNR emphasized the critical dangers associated with combining alcohol and boating and has issued a reminder to the public to always designate a sober skipper.
Details of the Collision
The incident took place on Lake Greenwood, a popular recreational destination for boaters. Preliminary reports indicate that shortly before the collision, SCDNR officers had observed the Yamaha boat’s lack of proper navigation lighting, raising safety concerns. Despite the proper functioning lights on the Alumacraft, the unexpected strike from behind by the faster-moving Yamaha led to a severe impact.
Response and Rescue Efforts
Local emergency services were dispatched swiftly to the scene after the collision was reported. The quick response of SCDNR officers and local law enforcement proved vital, as they provided immediate aid to the injured passengers. The recovery of the ejected passenger added to the rapid response efforts, showcasing the importance of prepared and well-coordinated rescue operations during such emergencies.
Impaired Boating Violations
In light of this tragedy, authorities are focusing on the issue of impaired boating. Under South Carolina law, operating a boat under the influence of alcohol is a serious offense that can lead to severe legal consequences, particularly when it results in injury or death. This incident underscores the continued need for public awareness around the responsibilities that come with operating watercraft and the risk factors involved.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation unfolds, SCDNR is actively collecting evidence related to the collision, which involves interviewing witnesses and reviewing any available video footage from the area. Investigators are also working closely with the Laurens County Coroner’s Office to address the fatalities and provide closure for the victims’ families.
This fatal accident serves as a grim reminder of the hazards present on the water and the importance of adhering to safety regulations. Boaters are urged to remain vigilant, particularly regarding navigation rules and the responsible consumption of alcohol while operating any vessel.
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Wikipedia: Boating under the influence
- WYFF 4
- Google Search: Lake Greenwood boating accident
- WLTX
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating
- Index Journal
- Google News: boating crash South Carolina
Author: HERE Greenwood
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