SC Man Ernest McCants ID’d As Pedestrian In Saturday Night Sumter Fatal Vehicle Strike

SUMTER, SC. (THECOUNT) — Ernest McCants, 54, of Sumter, South Carolina, was killed Saturday night after being struck by a vehicle while crossing Red Bay Road, according to the Sumter County Coroner’s Office. McCants died at the scene on a bridge spanning Turkey Creek, authorities said.

The collision occurred around 7 p.m. Saturday near the intersection of Red Bay Road and High Street, according to Lance Cpl. Brittany Glover of the South Carolina Highway Patrol. McCants was walking north across Red Bay Road when he was struck by a westbound 2019 Kia, Glover said.

Coroner Robbie Baker confirmed Sunday that McCants’ death was the result of an accident. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but McCants’ injuries were fatal, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Kia, the only occupant of the vehicle, was injured and transported to a nearby hospital. Further information regarding the driver’s condition was not immediately available, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

Authorities from the South Carolina Highway Patrol and Sumter County continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash. No charges have been announced at this time.

Red Bay Road is a two-lane roadway that passes through a mix of residential and commercial areas in Sumter, South Carolina. The bridge where the accident occurred spans Turkey Creek, a waterway that feeds into larger waterways in the Midlands region. Law enforcement officials have urged both pedestrians and drivers to exercise caution while the investigation continues.

Traffic was temporarily restricted on Red Bay Road as emergency responders and law enforcement documented the scene and collected evidence. Towing services assisted in clearing the Kia, while patrol units worked to determine contributing factors in the crash.

McCants resided in Sumter, South Carolina. Limited public information about his personal life is available. The sudden nature of the crash highlights the risks pedestrians face on busy Midlands roads.

Investigators are reviewing witness statements, vehicle conditions, and roadway factors to determine how the collision occurred. The South Carolina Highway Patrol has asked anyone with information about the accident to come forward.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation develops.

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