Hilton Head Island, SC, October 7, 2025
News Summary
A tragic accident on Hilton Head Island resulted in the death of 42-year-old tow truck operator Floyd Crespo, who was struck by a semi-truck while assisting on U.S. 278. The incident has highlighted concerns regarding roadside safety for emergency responders. Rahn’s Wrecker Service, Crespo’s employer, is organizing a tribute procession in his honor, as statistics show a significant number of drivers fail to adhere to the state’s ‘move over’ law designed to protect workers on the roadside.
Hilton Head Island, SC – A tragic collision on September 25, 2025, claimed the life of a tow truck operator when he was struck by a semi-truck while performing his duties on U.S. 278 at Jenkins Island Road. The accident occurred around 2:45 p.m., after 42-year-old Floyd Crespo from Effingham, Georgia, had completed a lift of a semi-truck off a curb near Main Street.
According to reports from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, the crash temporarily blocked all lanes heading onto Hilton Head Island. Officials stated that the roadway was partially closed, advising drivers in the area to proceed with caution and expect delays.
During the incident, Crespo was at the control compartment of his wrecker, rolling in the cables, when the semi-truck turned around in a nearby traffic circle. The truck swiped the wrecker, pinning Crespo between the two vehicles. He was pronounced dead at the scene due to his injuries.
Rahn’s Wrecker Service, Crespo’s employer, expressed profound grief over the incident, describing it as a “senseless accident.” The company emphasized the importance of South Carolina’s “move over” law, which requires drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles, including tow trucks.
Crespo brought over 20 years of experience in the towing industry, with three of those years spent at Rahn’s Wrecker Service. In honor of Crespo, the company is organizing a truck procession scheduled for Wednesday morning at the Thomas C. Strickland and Sons Funeral Home in Rincon, followed by a memorial service at Freedom Park.
This fatal incident underscores a growing concern regarding the safety of roadside assistance providers. Investigations have shown that these workers are frequently misclassified as “pedestrians” in crash reports, which complicates safety studies aimed at improving conditions for those providing roadside assistance. Recent statistics from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety indicate that nearly 18,000 citations have been issued in a statewide crackdown on violations related to the move over law.
This incident is part of a disturbing trend, as another tow truck driver, Eric “P.K.” Albertson, was fatally struck while assisting a customer in Jasper County just months before Crespo’s death. The ongoing risk faced by roadside providers and law enforcement during traffic stops remains a critical issue that must be addressed.
Conclusion
The death of Floyd Crespo highlights the dangers that tow truck operators face daily, working on busy roads to assist others. The commitment to safety and adherence to road laws is essential to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the collision on Hilton Head Island?
A tow truck operator named Floyd Crespo was killed in a collision with a semi-truck while he was working on U.S. 278 at Jenkins Island Road.
When did the accident occur?
The accident occurred on September 25, 2025, at approximately 2:45 p.m.
Who was the victim of the accident?
The victim of the accident was 42-year-old Floyd Crespo from Effingham, Georgia, a tow truck operator with over 20 years of experience.
What is the “move over” law?
The “move over” law in South Carolina requires drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles, including tow trucks, to ensure their safety while working on the roadside.
What is being done to honor Floyd Crespo?
Rahn’s Wrecker Service is organizing a truck procession in Floyd Crespo’s honor, scheduled for Wednesday morning at the Thomas C. Strickland and Sons Funeral Home in Rincon.
How many citations have been issued for violations of the “move over” law?
Nearly 18,000 citations have been issued in South Carolina as part of a crackdown on violations of the “move over” law.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | September 25, 2025 |
| Location | U.S. 278 at Jenkins Island Road, Hilton Head Island, SC |
| Victim | Floyd Crespo, 42, Effingham, Georgia |
| Cause of Death | Collision with a semi-truck |
| Employer | Rahn’s Wrecker Service |
| Citations for Move Over Law | Nearly 18,000 statewide |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Deputy Fired for Brandishing Gun at Teenagers
Tow Truck Operator Killed in Roadside Collision on Hilton Head Island
Tragic Incident Claims Life of Towing Professional on Hilton Head Island
Minke Whale Dies After Collision with Boat Off New Jersey
Tragic Collision Claims Lives of Four Workers in Eden, NC
Simpsonville’s Scufffletown Food Truck Park Shuts Down Amid Unforeseen Circumstances
Additional Resources
- WJCL: U.S. 278 Hilton Head Island Traffic
- Island Packet: Traffic Report
- WTOC: Wrecker Service Speaks Out
- Wikipedia: Road Safety
- Live 5 News: Troopers Investigate Fatal Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
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.
