Tragic Hit-and-Run: University of South Carolina Student Nathanial “Nate” Baker Killed in Columbia Motorcycle Crash as Police Hunt for Fleeing Driver

Columbia, South Carolina – The Columbia community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 21-year-old Nathanial “Nate” Baker, a promising young student at the University of South Carolina whose life was cut short in a tragic hit-and-run accident.

On the evening of April 2, 2025, Baker was riding his motorcycle near the intersection of Blossom and Assembly streets, a busy area close to the university campus. Witnesses say a pickup truck collided with Baker at high speed, sending him flying onto the pavement. Instead of stopping to offer help or call for medical assistance, the driver of the truck fled the scene, leaving Baker gravely injured on the road.

Emergency responders arrived within minutes and rushed him to a nearby hospital, where doctors fought to save his life. Despite their best efforts, Baker succumbed to his injuries, devastating his family, friends, and the entire University of South Carolina community.

A Life Filled with Promise

Nate Baker was more than just a student; he was a friend, a brother, and a young man with a bright future ahead of him. As a business major, he had dreams of one day starting his own company. He was an active member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, where he was known for his infectious energy, loyalty, and kindness toward everyone he met. His fraternity brothers described him as someone who “lit up every room he walked into” and a person “everyone wanted to be around.”

His tragic death has left an indescribable void in the hearts of those who knew him.

Search for Justice

Authorities are working tirelessly to track down the driver responsible for Baker’s death. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras is being reviewed in hopes of identifying the suspect. Police are urging anyone with information about the crash or the pickup truck involved to come forward.

“We are committed to finding the person who did this and holding them accountable,” said Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook. “This was a senseless tragedy, and we won’t stop until justice is served for Nathanial and his grieving family.”

The hit-and-run has sparked outrage in the community, with local leaders and university officials calling for stricter penalties for drivers who flee accident scenes.

Remembering Nate

A candlelight vigil has been scheduled on campus to honor Nate’s memory. Friends, classmates, and faculty members will gather to share stories, offer condolences, and support one another during this difficult time.

Nate’s family has requested privacy as they mourn their unimaginable loss, but they have expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received.

Anyone with information regarding the hit-and-run is urged to contact the Columbia Police Department or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.

As the investigation continues, one thing is clear—Nathanial “Nate” Baker’s life may have been tragically cut short, but his impact on those who knew him will never fade.