James McCoy Obituary, Death: Pedestrian Killed in Hwy 15 Crash Identified by Coroner

SUMTER COUNTY, SC — Authorities have identified the pedestrian who died after being struck by a vehicle along U.S. Highway 15 earlier this week. The Sumter County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the victim was 45-year-old James McCoy.

The incident occurred on Tuesday when McCoy was walking along the southbound lane of Highway 15. According to officials, a Chevrolet Silverado traveling southbound struck McCoy as he walked in the roadway. The circumstances surrounding why McCoy was on the road at the time are still under investigation.

Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, and McCoy was transported to Prisma Health Richland in Columbia for medical treatment. Despite efforts to save his life, he succumbed to the injuries he sustained in the crash.

Sumter County Coroner Robbie Baker released McCoy’s identity to the public on Wednesday. The coroner’s office stated that an autopsy will be conducted at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) to further determine the exact cause of death and gather additional forensic evidence that could assist in the investigation.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is working in collaboration with the Sumter County Coroner’s Office to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision. Authorities have not yet released any further details about the driver of the Silverado or whether any charges will be filed.

It remains unclear whether McCoy was wearing reflective clothing or if lighting conditions may have played a role in the collision. Investigators are also examining whether factors such as speed, visibility, or driver impairment contributed to the tragic incident.

Officials have not confirmed the exact time of the crash, but sources indicate that it happened during a period of reduced visibility, which is common in early morning or evening hours on that stretch of the highway. U.S. Highway 15 runs through a mix of rural and residential areas in Sumter County and is commonly used by both commuters and long-distance travelers.

As is standard in fatal roadway incidents, the coroner’s office will review toxicology results as part of the autopsy process, which may offer insight into McCoy’s condition at the time of the collision. Similarly, authorities are expected to inspect the vehicle involved and review the driver’s account to determine whether any mechanical issues or road conditions were contributing factors.

The investigation remains active, and officials are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward and assist in the case. Witness testimony could help clarify the sequence of events and provide answers to McCoy’s family and the community.

James McCoy’s death has left family and friends mourning the sudden loss of a loved one. While few personal details have been released publicly, those who knew him have begun to express their grief and share memories on social media and community forums. Tributes and messages of sympathy have started to emerge as word of the accident spreads throughout the Sumter area.

Pedestrian fatalities have been a growing concern in South Carolina, with several such incidents occurring on major roads and highways. Advocates for pedestrian safety have long called for improvements such as better street lighting, crosswalks, and public education on road-sharing practices. This latest tragedy underscores the ongoing need for awareness and safety measures to protect those who travel on foot.

Local authorities have stressed the importance of exercising caution for both drivers and pedestrians, especially along highways where speed limits are higher and visibility may be limited. While it’s uncommon for pedestrians to be walking along busy highways like US-15, officials acknowledge that in some cases, individuals may not have access to sidewalks or safe alternatives.

At this time, no charges have been filed, and the investigation is expected to take several more days as investigators gather additional evidence and await autopsy and toxicology results. Once complete, the findings may determine whether legal or administrative actions are necessary.

In the meantime, the community continues to reflect on the life lost and the risks present on South Carolina’s roadways. Highway 15, like many major thoroughfares in the state, sees a mix of traffic, and this incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers pedestrians face when traveling outside of designated walking areas.

The Sumter County Coroner’s Office and South Carolina Highway Patrol will release further updates as they become available. Anyone with information related to the crash is encouraged to contact local authorities.

James McCoy’s untimely death has left a void in the lives of those who knew him. As officials continue their efforts to uncover what happened, the community joins in honoring his memory and hoping for answers that might prevent similar tragedies in the future.