Samuel Dantzler, Brianna Wiles Obituary, Death – Authorities in Dorchester County have released the identities of two individuals who lost their lives following a traffic incident that took place early Sunday morning along U.S. Highway 15, just south of Saint George.
The Dorchester County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the driver of the vehicle was 20-year-old Samuel Dantzler of Harleyville. Officials said he passed away at the scene. The passenger, 23-year-old Brianna Wiles from Round O, was taken to Trident Medical Center, where she later passed away from her injuries.
According to a report from the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the incident occurred as a Chevrolet truck driven by Dantzler was heading south on U.S. 15. For reasons still under investigation, the vehicle veered off the side of the roadway and came into contact with a tree.
Emergency responders from several agencies, including the Dorchester County Coroner’s Office and the Highway Patrol, were called to the location shortly after the crash was reported. Upon arrival, they began efforts to assess the situation and render aid to those involved.
Authorities have not yet determined what may have caused the vehicle to leave the roadway. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence, review the scene, and reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the incident. Factors such as road conditions, driver actions, and vehicle performance are being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Local residents in the Saint George and Harleyville areas expressed sadness after learning about the loss of two young community members. Many have taken to social media to share messages of support and condolences for the families affected by the tragedy.
Officials from the South Carolina Highway Patrol are reminding all motorists to exercise caution while driving, particularly during early morning or late-night hours when visibility and alertness can be reduced. Drivers are also encouraged to avoid distractions, follow posted speed limits, and ensure their vehicles are properly maintained to prevent avoidable incidents.
The Dorchester County Coroner’s Office will continue to work closely with the Highway Patrol to complete the investigation. The findings will help determine the contributing factors and offer a clearer understanding of how the event unfolded.
Authorities have not released further details regarding funeral arrangements or memorial services for Dantzler and Wiles, but friends and relatives have described both as kind and vibrant individuals who were loved by many in their communities.
The collision serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of roadway safety and attentiveness behind the wheel. Even a brief moment of distraction or a sudden change in road conditions can have serious consequences. Officials encourage anyone traveling on U.S. Highway 15 and other major routes in the region to remain mindful of traffic laws and stay alert at all times.
As the investigation continues, both the Dorchester County Coroner’s Office and the South Carolina Highway Patrol are expected to release additional information once their findings are complete. For now, community members are coming together to support one another and honor the memories of the two young lives lost too soon.
This tragic event has deeply affected many throughout Dorchester County, reinforcing the shared commitment among local authorities and residents to promote safer driving practices and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
