Pickens County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim of a fiery single-vehicle crash in Pendleton, South Carolina, as Wilbur Haile Hayes IV from Anderson.​
Crash Details
The incident occurred on January 1, 2026, on West Queen Street in Pendleton, where the car was fully engulfed in flames when emergency responders arrived. Firefighters discovered the sole occupant during extinguishing efforts, and identification was confirmed via dental records.​
Official Ruling
The coroner ruled the manner of death accidental. No additional details on the cause, such as speed or road conditions, were released in initial reports.​
