A tragic accident took place early Wednesday morning in West Ashley, Charleston, where a 74-year-old man lost his life after being hit by a car. The incident has left the local community shocked and has brought attention to pedestrian safety on busy roads like Savannah Highway.
Who Was the Victim?
The Charleston County Coroner identified the victim as Joseph Anthony Lance, a 74-year-old man. He died at Roper St. Francis Hospital around 7:05 a.m., just under an hour after being struck by a vehicle while crossing the road.
How the Crash Happened
According to Charleston Police, the crash occurred around 6:15 a.m. on Savannah Highway, near the intersection with Skylark Drive. Investigators say Lance was trying to cross the road when a Toyota sedan heading north hit him. The driver of the vehicle stopped right away after the incident.
Road Closures and Police Response
Following the crash, several lanes of Savannah Highway were shut down for a little over two hours while police conducted their investigation and cleared the scene. Officers worked quickly to manage traffic and gather evidence.
Investigation Still Ongoing
Charleston Police are actively investigating the accident and have asked the public for help. They are urging anyone who may have seen the crash or has any relevant information to contact the Charleston Police Department Traffic Unit at 843-965-4084.
Community Concerns About Pedestrian Safety
This incident has sparked conversations in West Ashley and the larger Charleston area about the need for safer crossings and better lighting on high-traffic roads like Savannah Highway. Many residents have expressed concerns about how dangerous it can be to walk across wide, busy roads, especially during early morning or late evening hours.
The death of Joseph Anthony Lance is a sad reminder of how risky roads can be, especially for elderly pedestrians. As the investigation continues, authorities hope witnesses will come forward to help piece together the full story of what happened. In the meantime, this tragic event has brought fresh attention to improving road safety in Charleston and making city streets safer for everyone.
