
Orangeburg County, SC (May 20, 2026) – A man lost his life on Monday night, May 18, after a hit-and-run along Citadel Road in Orangeburg County. According to reports, he was walking near the westbound lane around 11:15 p.m. when a vehicle traveling in the same direction struck him and continued away from the roadway.
The Orangeburg County Coroner identified him as 36-year-old Bernard Washington Jr. of Orangeburg. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Additional details about the vehicle involved have not been released as of today.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues working to identify both the driver and the vehicle connected to the collision.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the deceased victim.
After a pedestrian hit-and-run in Orangeburg County, families may have legal options through insurance claims or other civil actions, depending on the facts of the accident. In South Carolina, these cases often require a careful review of roadway evidence, witness information, and available insurance coverage.
Because hit-and-run cases often unfold quickly, preserving information early can become especially helpful. Photographs, witness contact details, surveillance footage, and medical records may all help clarify how the roadway encounter occurred and what factors contributed to the fatal injuries.
In some cases, investigators also review roadway lighting, visibility conditions, and vehicle debris left behind after the driver leaves the area.
Families may also face unexpected financial pressure in the weeks following a fatal pedestrian collision. Funeral expenses, lost household income, and ongoing administrative costs can create added stress during an already difficult period.
When the driver involved cannot immediately be identified, questions surrounding uninsured motorist coverage and available insurance policies may also become more complicated over time.
As these matters are reviewed, a wrongful death lawyer may help examine insurance policies, medical documentation, and records tied to financial losses connected to the fatal roadway accident.
Legal guidance can also explain how South Carolina wrongful death laws may apply and whether compensation could be available through uninsured motorist coverage or other claims related to the driver involved.
For families seeking more information about possible legal options after a pedestrian accident in South Carolina, The Arndt Law Firm can be reached at (843) 469-8777. We can discuss what happened and provide strong legal support during this challenging time.
Note: This post has been prepared using information gathered from publicly available secondary sources. The details of the incident have not been independently verified. If you notice any inaccuracies, please contact The Arndt Law Firm so we can promptly review and update the content to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. This content does not create an attorney-client relationship and does not constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, you should seek immediate medical attention. Any photographs included in this post are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual scene of the accident.
