Bluffton, SC, September 24, 2025
News Summary
Bluffton witnessed a devastating day with two fatal accidents occurring less than an hour apart, resulting in the deaths of an 81-year-old woman and a 51-year-old man. The first incident involved a collision at U.S. 278 and Sun City Boulevard, and the second occurred on Bluffton Parkway shortly after. These events raise concerns about road safety in the area amid increasing traffic fatalities this year. Local authorities continue to emphasize the need for heightened awareness and caution among drivers.
Bluffton experienced a tragic day on Saturday, September 22, 2025, with two roadway fatalities occurring just over half an hour apart. The first incident involved an 81-year-old woman, Margaret Mallet, who was killed in a collision at the intersection of U.S. 278 (Fording Island Road) and Sun City Boulevard. The crash happened around 10:12 a.m. when Mallet’s 2014 Nissan Sentra, which was traveling west, collided with a 2015 Acura heading east. Despite being rushed to Coastal Carolina Hospital, she was pronounced dead about 40 minutes later due to injuries from the crash. This incident marks the 15th highway fatality in Beaufort County for the year 2025 and the fifth fatal crash on U.S. 278 this year.
On the same day, around 10:45 a.m., another fatal accident occurred on Bluffton Parkway, resulting in the death of a 51-year-old man named Waldo Mercado. The crash involved a 2014 Jeep Compass which had stopped after its trailer came loose, leading to a collision that resulted in Mercado sustaining blunt force injuries and ultimately dying shortly after the incident. Emergency crews had to close all eastbound lanes of Bluffton Parkway to manage the scene. This crash accounted for the 13th highway fatality in Beaufort County for 2025.
In the context of traffic safety, it is crucial to note that while the number of fatalities has increased this year, traffic fatalities in 2025 have occurred at a slower rate compared to the previous year. By September 2024, there were 19 fatalities reported in Beaufort County. In 2024, the total number of traffic fatalities in Beaufort County reached 26, highlighting a significant concern for local residents and authorities regarding road safety.
Authorities have also indicated that this year has seen a worrying trend of traffic-related deaths in the area, including accidents involving pedestrians and motorcyclists. The latest fatal collisions emphasize the ongoing need for vigilance and safety measures on local roads, especially on busy routes like U.S. 278 and Bluffton Parkway.
As investigation continues, local authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution and remain vigilant on the roads to prevent similar tragedies in the future. With a series of fatal accidents this year, the community is reminded of the importance of traffic safety practices to ensure the well-being of all road users.
Summary of Fatal Accidents in Bluffton – September 22, 2025
| Incident | Time | Location | Victim(s) | Vehicle(s) | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Collision | 10:12 a.m. | U.S. 278 and Sun City Boulevard | Margaret Mallet, 81 | 2014 Nissan Sentra, 2015 Acura | Fatal |
| Second Collision | 10:45 a.m. | Bluffton Parkway | Waldo Mercado, 51 | 2014 Jeep Compass | Fatal |
FAQ
What were the details of the first fatal accident in Bluffton on September 22, 2025?
The first accident occurred at the intersection of U.S. 278 and Sun City Boulevard at around 10:12 a.m. involving Margaret Mallet, 81, whose 2014 Nissan Sentra collided with a 2015 Acura. She was pronounced dead at Coastal Carolina Hospital about 40 minutes later.
What happened in the second fatal accident that day?
The second accident occurred on Bluffton Parkway at approximately 10:45 a.m. It involved a 2014 Jeep Compass that had stopped after its trailer came loose, leading to the death of Waldo Mercado, 51, who died of blunt force injuries shortly after the incident.
How many traffic fatalities have there been in Beaufort County in 2025?
As of September 2025, there have been 15 traffic fatalities reported in Beaufort County.
How does the 2025 traffic fatality rate compare to 2024?
In 2025, traffic fatalities have occurred at a slower rate compared to the previous year, with 19 fatalities reported by September 2024 compared to 15 fatalities by September 2025.
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Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
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