A tragic accident on Interstate 95 in Orangeburg County, South Carolina, claimed the lives of Kyle Greene (32) and Sarah Greene (33), a married couple from Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. The fatal incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, May 6, leaving their young child injured but miraculously surviving. This heartbreaking accident has shaken both the local community of Fuquay-Varina and Orangeburg, as it is not only the loss of two devoted individuals but also the life-altering trauma faced by their child, who now faces a future without both parents.

The Fatal Crash

According to the Orangeburg County Coroner’s Office, the collision took place at approximately 12:45 a.m. on May 6, in the northbound lanes of I-95 near mile marker 87. Kyle Greene, who was driving a 2019 Chevrolet Equinox, collided with the rear of a 1987 auto dump truck. The crash resulted in significant damage to both vehicles, leaving the Chevrolet Equinox engulfed in flames, and the Greene family trapped inside. Despite firefighters and paramedics quickly responding to the scene, Kyle and Sarah Greene were both declared dead due to the injuries sustained during the collision. Tragically, the couple’s young child, who was in the backseat, was also injured but survived the crash.

The crash occurred in a stretch of I-95 that has seen prior incidents, though none as devastating as this. Kyle Greene, a father and husband, was pronounced dead at the scene, and Sarah Greene, who was the front-seat passenger, succumbed to her injuries as well. The child, whose name and age have not been disclosed, was transported to Prisma Health Richland Hospital for immediate care, though their condition remains under observation. It is fortunate that the child survived the accident, but the trauma of losing both parents at such a young age is unimaginable.

The driver of the dump truck, Noely Rafael Vargas, a 27-year-old man, sustained injuries to his legs and was transported to Garnet Health Medical Center in Middletown for treatment. Authorities have not yet disclosed the full extent of his injuries or his condition, but the truck driver managed to escape the collision without life-threatening injuries. Authorities are still gathering information regarding the driver’s actions prior to the crash and have not ruled out factors such as driver fatigue, speed, or improper lighting on the dump truck.

Investigating the Cause of the Collision

The South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) is actively investigating the cause of the fatal crash. Master Trooper William Bennett from the SCHP confirmed that both vehicles were traveling in the same direction when the crash occurred. The Chevrolet Equinox collided with the rear of the dump truck, but the exact circumstances of why Kyle Greene’s vehicle veered into the truck remain unclear. Preliminary reports indicate that there were no signs of erratic driving, but further investigation is underway.

As part of the ongoing investigation, law enforcement officials are examining factors such as speed, driver distraction, mechanical failure, and visibility issues. Authorities are also looking into whether fog, low visibility, or poor road conditions might have played a role in the crash, especially since it occurred during the early hours of the morning, when visibility is often reduced.

The authorities are also reviewing whether the dump truck was operating at an appropriate speed and whether its safety lighting was functioning correctly. The possibility of distraction or improper vehicle lighting has not been ruled out at this stage. As investigations continue, updates will be provided by South Carolina Highway Patrol.

The Victims: Kyle and Sarah Greene

Kyle Greene and Sarah Greene were described as a loving couple, dedicated parents, and active members of their community. Hailing from Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, they had relocated to South Carolina, where they were continuing to build their lives. Kyle, known for his hard work and compassion, had a promising future ahead of him, while Sarah, a kind-hearted and devoted mother, was admired by everyone who knew her.

Friends, family, and community members have been sharing heartfelt tributes on social media platforms, remembering the Greenes for their dedication to their family and their kindness to others. The couple’s tragic passing has left the local community devastated, particularly for those who knew them both personally and professionally.

The couple leaves behind their young child, who, despite the trauma of losing both parents in such a horrific accident, is receiving medical attention and emotional support from loved ones and the community. As the investigation continues, questions about custody and the child’s future care are likely to come to the forefront.

The Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that a crisis team has been dispatched to assist with support for the surviving child and family members during this extremely difficult time.

Impact on the Community and Law Enforcement

The crash has left the local community in Orangeburg County and Fuquay-Varina reeling. Local authorities, including the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, have urged drivers to remain vigilant on the roadways and to exercise caution when traveling, particularly in low-visibility areas like highway work zones and nighttime driving.

This crash serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of traveling during the night, especially on highways like I-95, where the risk of fatal collisions remains high. While there is no definitive cause of the crash yet, the incident calls for increased attention to driver safety and road awareness, especially in high-traffic areas with large vehicles like dump trucks.

Law enforcement is asking for anyone who may have witnessed the accident to come forward. They have requested that individuals who saw the crash or have additional information contact SCHP at 843-734-2800. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-CRIMESC.

Memorial Efforts and Community Support

As the community processes the devastating loss of Kyle and Sarah Greene, memorial efforts are underway to honor their memory. Funeral arrangements for the Greenes are being planned, and various fundraising efforts are likely to follow, as the community rallies to provide emotional and financial support to the surviving child. Family friends have mentioned the possibility of establishing a memorial fund to assist with the child’s future needs, as well as potential educational and living expenses.

In addition to the memorial efforts, local churches and community organizations have stepped forward to provide support to the Greene family, offering prayers and emotional care during this tragic time. The grieving process for the family will take time, but the community has shown overwhelming support for the surviving child.

Conclusion

This tragic crash serves as a reminder of how quickly life can change in the blink of an eye. The loss of Kyle Greene and Sarah Greene has sent shockwaves through their family, friends, and the broader Fuquay-Varina community. As investigators continue their work, the Greenes’ legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew them. The community is united in support of the surviving child, and efforts will continue to provide all necessary assistance as they navigate the challenges ahead.

The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and authorities are determined to bring closure to the Greene family, providing answers to the many questions surrounding this heartbreaking incident.