BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — Heartbreak has gripped Berkeley County after 24-year-old Aria Lawrence of Andrews was identified as the woman who tragically lost her life in a three-vehicle collision on US-17A Friday afternoon.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 4:30 p.m. on October 24 near the intersection of Pear Tree Lane. Lawrence was driving a Chevrolet when her vehicle side-swiped a southbound Ford truck before colliding head-on with a Freightliner truck. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but Lawrence succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the site.
The drivers of the Ford and Freightliner trucks were unharmed, according to authorities. The Highway Patrol is actively investigating the circumstances leading to the crash and is asking anyone with information to come forward.
A Community in Mourning
Lawrence’s sudden death has left family, friends, and neighbors devastated. The Berkeley County Coroner confirmed her identity, giving loved ones confirmation of the tragic loss that has shaken the community. Residents described Lawrence as a bright, caring young woman whose life was full of promise, and whose passing has left a deep void.
Local officials emphasized the importance of road safety, particularly during high-traffic times, reminding drivers that even routine travel can quickly turn tragic. The crash serves as a solemn reminder of how fragile life can be on the highways of the Lowcountry.
Remembering Aria Lawrence
Family and friends have begun sharing memories and tributes online, celebrating Lawrence’s vibrant spirit and the joy she brought to those around her. Her death is felt profoundly in Andrews and the surrounding communities, highlighting the ripple effect such tragedies have on small towns and close-knit neighborhoods.
Authorities continue to investigate the collision to determine the exact cause, while the community mourns a young life lost far too soon.