March 31, 2025

Tragic Accident in Darlington County Claims Father and Daughter

News Summary

A devastating two-vehicle collision in Darlington County on Friday evening claimed the lives of Ronnie Gilbert, 59, and his daughter Ronnisha, 27. The accident at the intersection of S.C. 151 and Bethel Road shocked the local community as they mourn the loss of the beloved pair. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with concerns rising about road safety as fatalities continue to increase across South Carolina.

Tragic Accident in Darlington County Claims Father and Daughter

Darlington County was shaken by a heartbreaking accident on Friday evening, taking the lives of a father and daughter in a tragic two-vehicle collision. The incident took place around 6:20 p.m. at the intersection of S.C. 151 and Bethel Road, a location known to many in the area.

The Incident: A Collision at Dusk

Details regarding the crash indicate that a 2024 Ford F-650 pickup truck was traveling east on S.C. 151 when it collided with a 2022 Nissan Sentra heading northbound on Bethel Road. The force of the impact was severe, leaving the community in shock and mourning for those lost.

Located roughly 7 miles from the renowned Darlington Raceway, the intersection where this accident occurred has now been marked by a tragedy that will affect many.

Victims Remembered

Inside the Nissan Sentra were Ronnie Gilbert, age 59, and his 27-year-old daughter Ronnisha Gilbert, both residents of Hartsville. Tragically, both individuals perished at the scene. As family and friends try to come to terms with the shocking loss, there are waves of sorrow throughout the community as they remember Ronnie and Ronnisha’s lives.

Driver of the Pickup Truck Taken to Hospital

The driver of the Ford pickup truck, the lone occupant of that vehicle, was injured in the collision and was transported to a nearby hospital. However, details about their condition remain uncertain at this time. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash continues, leaving many unanswered questions.

In an alarming trend, this devastating incident adds to the increasing toll of fatalities on South Carolina’s roads. As of February 23, 2025, more than 92 people have lost their lives in accidents across the state in less than two months. For context, a total of 948 individuals were reported dead due to crashes in South Carolina throughout 2024.

A Closer Look at Darlington County

Sadly, Darlington County has not been immune to this heartbreaking epidemic. With at least six roadway fatalities already reported in 2025, this community has seen too much loss to accidents on its roads. In 2024, the county experienced a total of 20 fatalities, emphasizing the urgent need for safety awareness among drivers and passengers alike.

Investigation and Safety Measures

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating the incident, but it remains to be seen whether or not the inquiry is still ongoing. Questions linger about whether seat belts were being used by those in the Nissan Sentra, which could have made a difference in this tragic outcome.

The loss of Ronnie and Ronnisha Gilbert serves as a painful reminder for everyone – road safety is a critical issue that affects communities across the state. As loved ones gather to support each other in the face of this unspeakable tragedy, many are looking toward the future with a renewed commitment to safe driving practices.

Community Impact and Outlook

As the Glenville community and the greater Hartsville area mourn the loss of the Gilberts, information will continue to develop regarding the investigation. Local authorities will likely release further details in the coming days.

In moments like these, it becomes important for communities to come together, support one another, and prioritize safety measures that protect lives. With every passing day, we hope to see positive changes on the roads that keep our families safe and prevent tragic accidents like this one from happening again.

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Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

CLINTON STAFF WRITER The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens 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 Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. 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.