News Summary
A tragic accident on Lake Greenwood, South Carolina, resulted in the deaths of two young Clemson University graduates. The collision between two boats occurred in the early morning hours, raising serious concerns about boating safety and the dangers of alcohol consumption while operating a vessel. Authorities have charged the operator of one of the boats with felony boating under the influence following the incident. Community members are mourning the loss of the graduates and emphasizing the necessity of responsible boating practices moving forward.
Lake Greenwood, South Carolina – A tragic boating accident on Lake Greenwood on July 6 resulted in the deaths of two Clemson University graduates, 23-year-old Thomas Chandler Davis and 23-year-old Abby Katherine Davis. The collision, which involved two boats, occurred shortly before 2 a.m. and has raised concerns over boating safety and the implications of operating under the influence.
According to South Carolina authorities, the accident occurred when a Yamaha boat, operated by Allen Sidney Benware Jr. III, collided with an Alumacraft boat carrying five individuals. The Yamaha struck the Alumacraft from behind, resulting in the deaths of both Thomas and Abby Davis, while two other passengers aboard the Alumacraft sustained injuries and were subsequently hospitalized.
Emergency responders acted quickly, rescuing one individual who had been ejected into the water during the crash and treating another who suffered injuries. While both Thomas and Abby Davis were pronounced dead at the scene, the two surviving passengers received medical attention, with one being treated and later released from the hospital.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) confirmed that the Alumacraft had its navigation lights fully operational at the time of the incident. In contrast, investigators found that the Yamaha boat was traveling without proper navigation lighting and that Benware exhibited signs of intoxication during field sobriety tests.
As a result of the investigation, Allen Sidney Benware Jr. III has been charged with two counts of felony boating under the influence (BUI). He has been taken into custody at the Laurens County Detention Center, where he has been denied bond. The SCDNR is currently reconstructing the timeline of events and interviewing witnesses to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
The local community has been deeply affected by the tragic loss of the two young graduates. Community members emphasized the importance of responsible boating practices and have expressed their grief, while Clemson University issued a statement mourning the loss of their alumni and extended condolences to the victims’ families.
This incident serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers associated with boating, particularly in relation to alcohol consumption. The SCDNR has reiterated the importance of safety on the water, urging boaters to designate a sober skipper and avoid operating vessels while under the influence.
In light of the accident, authorities are emphasizing the critical need to uphold safety standards for boating activities. Educational initiatives promoting safe boating practices are expected to be reinforced following this tragic event.
The investigation into the boating accident on Lake Greenwood continues, with the SCDNR dedicated to gathering all relevant information to prevent future tragedies. As the community mourns the loss of Thomas and Abby Davis, the call for enhanced awareness and adherence to boating safety guidelines becomes increasingly urgent.
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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
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina
- Wikipedia: Boating Safety
- Fox News
- Google Search: Lake Greenwood boating accident
- WYFF 4
- Google Scholar: Boating Safety and Alcohol
- Index Journal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating Accidents
- WSPA
- Google News: Boating Collision
Author: HERE Greenwood
GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER 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.
