DORCHESTER COUNTY, S.C. — A fatal collision on Interstate 95 early Saturday morning has left one driver dead and another hospitalized, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Cpl. Nick Pye, speaking on behalf of the Highway Patrol, said the crash took place at approximately 3:30 a.m. in the southbound lanes of I-95, near mile marker 78. Emergency crews were quickly dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of the severe accident.

Preliminary findings indicate that the crash involved two vehicles: a 2005 Toyota SUV and a 2025 Hyundai SUV. According to investigators, the Toyota struck the Hyundai while both were traveling southbound on the interstate. The impact forced the Hyundai off the right side of the roadway, where it left the pavement and sustained heavy damage.

Authorities confirmed that the driver of the Hyundai, whose name has not yet been released, was killed as a result of the crash. First responders attempted to provide aid, but the injuries were too severe. The individual was pronounced dead at the scene.

Meanwhile, the driver of the Toyota survived the impact but sustained injuries requiring medical attention. Emergency medical personnel transported that driver to a nearby hospital for treatment. The extent of those injuries has not been disclosed, but officials said the individual is expected to recover.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the circumstances of the crash. At this time, it remains unclear what caused the Toyota to strike the Hyundai, and whether factors such as speed, distraction, fatigue, or impairment may have contributed. Investigators will also review road conditions at the time of the crash. Early morning hours can pose unique hazards for drivers, with reduced visibility, drowsiness, and potential wildlife crossings all presenting risks.

As part of their process, troopers will examine physical evidence at the scene, including skid marks, vehicle positions, and debris patterns, to help reconstruct how the crash unfolded. Both vehicles will also undergo mechanical inspections to rule out any equipment failure that may have played a role.

The incident caused temporary traffic disruptions along the southbound lanes of I-95 near mile marker 78 as first responders and investigators worked the scene. Motorists were rerouted for several hours before the roadway was fully cleared and reopened to traffic later in the morning.

For the family and friends of the deceased driver, the crash is a devastating tragedy. Authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity, pending proper notification of relatives. The Highway Patrol expressed condolences to those impacted by the loss and emphasized their commitment to determining the exact circumstances behind the collision.

I-95 is one of the busiest interstate highways in the United States, frequently seeing heavy traffic at all hours, including long-haul truckers, travelers, and commuters. Crashes on the route are not uncommon, and state officials continually remind drivers to stay alert, obey speed limits, and avoid distractions behind the wheel.

As the investigation continues, the South Carolina Highway Patrol is urging anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has information about the drivers’ actions leading up to the crash to come forward. Such details could prove critical in piecing together the timeline of events.

While the cause of the incident remains under review, Saturday’s crash serves as a grim reminder of the dangers present on highways, particularly during early morning hours when fatigue and low visibility can heighten risks.