Hilton Head Island, September 27, 2025
News Summary
A pedestrian was fatally struck by an International semi-truck in a Harris Teeter parking lot on Hilton Head Island. The incident occurred in the afternoon, and the identity of the victim has not yet been released as authorities notify next of kin. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the collision, which marks the 16th traffic fatality in Beaufort County this year. This highlights ongoing concerns regarding pedestrian safety in the region.
Hilton Head Island
A pedestrian was struck and killed by an International semi-truck on Thursday afternoon in the parking lot of a Harris Teeter on Hilton Head Island. The incident occurred at approximately 2:45 p.m. The identity of the pedestrian has not been released as the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office is still in the process of notifying next of kin.
The circumstances surrounding the collision remain unclear, and it is unknown whether the semi-truck driver will face any criminal charges. The South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) is investigating the incident to establish the specific details that led to this tragic event.
This incident marks the 16th known traffic fatality in Beaufort County for the year, and it is also the fourth pedestrian death in this county in 2023. These numbers underscore a concerning trend in regional traffic safety.
Related Incidents
In a separate case within Beaufort County, a 61-year-old woman named Sylvia Nelander has been arrested for a hit-and-run incident. Nelander faces charges of hit-and-run involving death after a pedestrian was struck and killed on Gum Tree Road on February 26. The vehicle involved in that incident was identified by the SCHP as a 2024 Toyota sedan. In that case, the victim was walking north across Gum Tree Road when the vehicle struck them. The investigation related to this incident is also ongoing.
Ongoing Investigations
The SCHP’s ongoing investigations into these incidents highlight the importance of road safety, particularly for pedestrians. Law enforcement agencies are encouraging safe driving practices and urging the public to remain vigilant when navigating busy areas, especially parking lots where pedestrian traffic may be high.
As the investigations continue, updates regarding the identity of the pedestrian involved in the Harris Teeter incident and any developments in the semi-truck driver’s status may provide further clarity on both cases. Community members are urged to stay informed and exercise caution as such incidents serve as a reminder of the potential dangers present on roadways and in parking lots alike.
Conclusion
The loss of life in these incidents serves to underscore ongoing concerns about road safety in Beaufort County. With an increasing number of traffic fatalities in the region, officials may need to examine measures to prevent further tragedies and ensure the well-being of all residents and visitors.
FAQ
What happened in Hilton Head Island?
A pedestrian was struck and killed by an International semi-truck in the parking lot of a Harris Teeter on Hilton Head Island.
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon at around 2:45 p.m.
Has the pedestrian been identified?
The pedestrian has not been identified, as the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office has yet to release their name.
What is being done about the investigation?
The South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) is conducting an ongoing investigation into the incident.
Is the semi-truck driver facing criminal charges?
It is unclear if the semi-truck driver will face any criminal charges at this time.
What are the statistics for traffic fatalities in Beaufort County this year?
This incident marks the 16th known traffic fatality in Beaufort County for the year and the fourth pedestrian death in Beaufort County this year.
Key Features of the Incident and Related Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Harris Teeter Parking Lot, Hilton Head Island |
| Date & Time | Thursday afternoon, approximately 2:45 p.m. |
| Casualty | Pedestrian struck and killed |
| Investigation | Ongoing by South Carolina Highway Patrol |
| Traffic Fatalities (2023) | 16 in Beaufort County, 4 pedestrian deaths |
| Related Case | Sylvia Nelander, arrested for hit-and-run on February 26 |
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Additional Resources
- WJCL: Semi-truck hits and kills pedestrian on Hilton Head Island
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- Island Packet: Local Crime News
- Google Search: Traffic Safety Hilton Head Island
- ABC News 4: Hilton Head Woman Arrested in Hit-and-Run
- Google Scholar: Road Safety South Carolina
- Island Packet: Local Traffic News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Accidents
- Island Packet: Local Crime Updates
- Google News: Pedestrian Fatalities South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort 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 RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
