News Summary
A tragic boating accident on Lake Greenwood in Laurens County has led to felony charges against Allen Sidney Benware Jr. III. After colliding with another boat, resulting in the deaths of two passengers, Benware faces multiple counts of boating under the influence. The investigation continues as authorities emphasize the dangers of alcohol consumption while operating a boat.
Lake Greenwood Incident Leads to Felony Charges after Fatal Crash
Laurens County, SC – Allen Sidney Benware Jr. III, 37, has been charged with two counts of felony boating under the influence (BUI) following a tragic collision that resulted in the death of two passengers on Lake Greenwood in the early hours of July 6, 2025. The incident, which occurred shortly before 2 a.m., involved a Yamaha boat operated by Benware and an Alumacraft boat carrying five individuals.
Details of the Crash
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) officers, who were conducting precautionary safety operations in the area, noted that the Yamaha boat was operating without proper navigation lights. Moments later, the Yamaha boat collided with the Alumacraft from behind. Reports indicate that while there were five people aboard the Alumacraft at the time of the incident, two passengers tragically lost their lives at the scene. Their identities have not yet been disclosed.
Among the group on the Alumacraft, a female passenger was ejected into the water during the crash but was quickly rescued and did not sustain serious injuries. Another passenger was transported to a local hospital but has since been released. In contrast, the Alumacraft boat was equipped with fully functioning navigation lights at the time of the collision.
Response and Investigation
Responding SCDNR officials immediately provided life-saving aid upon witnessing the crash. It is important to note that the officers were stationary and not pursuing the Yamaha boat at the time of the collision, suggesting that no chase contributed to the accident.
As the investigation unfolds, SCDNR officials are actively interviewing witnesses and reconstructing the events leading up to the crash. To ensure the accuracy of their findings, they are employing 3D scanning technology to capture precise measurements of the crash scene. The Laurens County Coroner’s Office is also involved in the investigation to assist with the ongoing case.
Context and Safety Reminders
This tragic incident underscores the dangers associated with alcohol consumption while operating a boat, a point emphasized by SCDNR representatives. Boating under the influence is a serious offense that can lead to devastating consequences, as evidenced by this recent crash. The case serves as a stark reminder for all boat operators and passengers to prioritize safety and adhere to regulations to prevent similar accidents in the future.
As authorities continue to collect evidence and unravel the details surrounding this unfortunate incident, the affected families and the community are left to grapple with the aftermath of this loss. The ongoing investigation will determine the full circumstances that led to the fatal crash and the accountability of those involved.
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Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina
- Wikipedia: Boating Under the Influence
- Index Journal
- Google Search: Lake Greenwood boating accident
- ABC News 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating Safety
- ABC Columbia
- Google News: boating accident Lake Greenwood
Author: HERE Greenwood
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