Laurens County, SC, October 8, 2025
News Summary
Residents of Laurens County are raising alarms about safety on Whelon Road following an incident where a vehicle sank in a private pond. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The lack of guardrails has been a concern, particularly as the area has a history of accidents, including a fatal incident in 2016. The SCDOT is monitoring the site but cites potential risks to a privately owned dam when considering guardrail installation. Community advocacy continues as residents push for safety improvements.
Laurens County, SC – The Laurens County Fire Service was called to a scene on Whelon Road where a vehicle was reported sinking in a private pond. Upon arrival, crews discovered one individual sitting outside the vehicle. Fortunately, the vehicle was successfully removed from the water, and no injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
Following the event, community members took to social media to express their concerns regarding the lack of guardrails at the location. Residents highlighted past accidents at the same site, including a tragic fatal accident in 2016 where a woman lost her life when her truck ran off the road and submerged in the pond.
The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) confirmed that the roadway is maintained by the agency; however, the dam beneath it is privately owned. Engineers from SCDOT have assessed that the installation of guardrails could potentially compromise the structural integrity of the privately owned dam. In light of this, the department is continuing to monitor the area and encourages residents to report any issues related to state-maintained roadways.
Despite previous requests for guardrails, there has been no installation following discussions between the SCDOT and the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). The lack of proper barriers has raised concerns, particularly since there are ponds located on both sides of the roadway with minimal separation from the road itself, increasing the risk of accidents.
Past incidents in the area, coupled with the recent vehicle sinking, have led to renewed discussions surrounding the need for safety improvements. Community members remain vigilant and are advocating for action to prevent further accidents, as the area continues to pose a risk to drivers.
Safety Concerns
The combination of the pond’s proximity to the roadway and the history of accidents in the area has raised significant safety concerns. Residents have been vocal about their fears and the potential for further incidents should no measures be taken to address the lack of guardrails.
Previous Accidents
In addition to the recent incident, the area is not unfamiliar with tragedies. In 2016, a woman died after her truck ran off the road and became submerged in the pond. This history of accidents highlights the urgent need for effective safety measures to prevent further loss of life.
Current Monitoring and Recommendations
The SCDOT has stated that it is closely monitoring the area and encourages residents to report any hazards or concerns. Public awareness and community involvement are crucial as discussions continue about improving safety at the site.
Background on SCDOT and DHEC Coordination
Coordination between the South Carolina Department of Transportation and the Department of Health and Environmental Control has thus far been unsuccessful regarding the installation of guardrails. These discussions have highlighted the complexities involved in improving safety in areas where infrastructure and environmental concerns intersect.
Potential Future Actions
The community’s ongoing dialogue about safety at this location may lead to future enhancements and preventative measures, though the timeline and specific actions are still under consideration. Continued advocacy from residents and stakeholders will be vital in pushing for necessary changes.
FAQ Section
What happened in Laurens County?
The Laurens County Fire Service responded to a scene on Whelon Road where a vehicle was found sinking in a private pond. When crews arrived, they reported one patient sitting outside the vehicle. The vehicle was removed from the water with no injuries reported.
What do residents say about the safety of the area?
Residents commented on social media, expressing concerns about the absence of guardrails in the area and referenced past accidents in the same location, including one fatal accident in 2016.
What is SCDOT’s position on the guardrails?
Hannah Robinson, media relations manager for the SCDOT, stated that the roadway is maintained by the department but the dam beneath it is privately owned. SCDOT engineers have assessed that guardrail installation could compromise the structural integrity of the privately owned dam.
What past incidents occurred at this location?
In 2016, a woman died after her truck ran off the road and submerged in the pond on Whelon Road.
What safety measures are being considered?
Despite previous requests for guardrails, no installation has occurred following discussions between SCDOT and the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). SCDOT is monitoring the area and encourages residents to report issues on state-maintained roadways.
Chart: Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Vehicle sinking in pond |
| Location | Whelon Road, Laurens County, SC |
| Response | Laurens County Fire Service |
| Injuries | No injuries reported |
| Community Concerns | Call for guardrails and past accidents |
| Historical Incident | 2016 fatal accident |
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Additional Resources
- 13 WMAZ: Multi-Vehicle Crash Leaves 1 Person Critical Condition
- Wikipedia: Laurens County, South Carolina
- Fox Carolina: Troopers Investigate Deadly Crash in Laurens County
- Google Search: Laurens County accidents
- WYFF4: Fatal Crash on Highway 14 in Laurens County
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
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.
