July 11, 2025

Boating Crash Claims Lives on Lake Greenwood

News Summary

A tragic boating accident on Lake Greenwood has resulted in two fatalities, raising serious concerns about boating safety. The crash involved a Yamaha and an Alumacraft, leading to felony charges against the operator of the Yamaha boat. Victims Thomas and Abby Davis, Clemson University graduates, were pronounced dead at the scene. The incident has sparked community discussions on the dangers of boating under the influence of alcohol and the importance of safety measures on the water.

Greenwood, South Carolina –

A deadly boating crash on Lake Greenwood early Sunday morning has left two individuals dead and led to felony charges against the operator of one of the boats involved. The incident occurred shortly before 2 a.m. on the Laurens County side of the lake, raising concerns about boating safety and the dangers of operating under the influence of alcohol.

The crash involved a Yamaha boat and an Alumacraft while officers from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) were conducting precautionary safety operations on the lake. Witnesses from SCDNR reported observing the Yamaha boat operating without proper navigation lights. Just as they were preparing to make a stop, the Yamaha collided with the Alumacraft from behind.

At the time of the crash, there were five people aboard the Alumacraft. Tragically, two of its passengers, identified as Thomas Chandler Davis and Abby Katherine Davis, both of whom were graduates of Clemson University, were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims’ identities have been confirmed by the Laurens County Coroner’s Office.

Following the collision, one passenger from the Alumacraft was ejected but was quickly rescued, while another was taken to the hospital following the incident. This second individual has since been released from medical care. Notably, the Alumacraft was confirmed to have fully functioning navigation lights at the time of the accident, highlighting the potential recklessness of the Yamaha operator.

The operator of the Yamaha boat, Allen Sidney Benware Jr. III, has been charged with two counts of felony boating under the influence. Benware was also a passenger in the Yamaha boat at the time of the crash. Following the incident, he was booked into the Laurens County Detention Center. Authorities from the SCDNR are currently conducting interviews with witnesses and working to reconstruct the events leading up to the bilious incident.

This incident has sparked discussions within the Lake Greenwood community regarding the dangers associated with alcohol consumption and boating activities. An SCDNR spokesperson has emphasized the importance of having a designated sober skipper while on the water, reiterating that alcohol and boating often lead to tragic outcomes.

Community members are mourning the loss of the Davises, expressing deep condolences and a desire to support the families affected by this tragedy. Local residents and friends have been seen rallying to offer their prayers and support as the community comes to grips with this unfortunate event.

A resident from Lake Greenwood reflected on the gravity of the situation, stressing the necessity of ongoing support for the victims’ families during this difficult time. Clemson University has also released a statement expressing sadness over the loss of its alumni, extending condolences to their families and friends as the university community comes together in remembrance of the two young individuals.

This boating accident serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers associated with boating under the influence and the importance of safety regulations on the water. As authorities continue to investigate the case, it is critical for boaters to remain informed and cautious while enjoying recreational activities on the aquatic landscape.