State agency reports 11 holiday travel deaths, Allendale sees three fatalities

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reported a preliminary total of 11 persons killed on state roadways during the Christmas holiday travel period, defined as December 24 at 6:00 p.m. through December 28 at 11:59 p.m. The agency compiled figures as of 11:59 p.m. on December 28, 2025 and described the numbers as preliminary and subject to update as investigations continue.

In the county by county table that accompanied the statewide totals, Allendale County is recorded with three traffic fatalities for 2025. That total compares with one traffic fatality in 2024 and two in 2023, reflecting an increase this year that will be a focus for local officials and safety advocates. Statewide totals were provided for context and the agency directed questions about individual deaths to the appropriate county coroner.

For Allendale County residents the numbers underline the human cost of holiday travel and the importance of roadside safety. Local emergency responders and the county coroner handle investigations and family notifications, and the preliminary nature of the statewide figures means totals could change as cases are closed and reports are finalized. Questions about specific incidents should be directed to the Allendale County coroner's office.

The report will likely prompt renewed attention to enforcement of traffic laws and public information campaigns aimed at reducing crashes during peak travel periods. Community leaders, law enforcement and faith based organizations often play roles in outreach after fatal incidents, providing support to affected families and encouraging safer driving practices during heavy travel times.

Residents seeking further information and statewide data can consult the South Carolina Department of Public Safety website at scdps.sc.gov. Local officials will release additional details as coroners and investigators complete their inquiries, and families directly affected by these losses are being offered resources through county services.