Charles Darrin Smith Obituary, Death – The Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office has released the identity of a man who lost his life in a vehicle crash that happened two weeks ago. Authorities confirmed that the victim was 62-year-old Charles Darrin Smith, a resident of Spartanburg County.
According to the report, the crash took place on Old Furnace Road near Southland Road, an area located in a semi-rural part of the county. Officials say the incident involved a 2000 Ford SUV, which went off the right side of the road for reasons that are still under investigation. After leaving the roadway, the vehicle struck a ditch, overturned, and then collided with a tree, resulting in fatal injuries to those inside.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) stated that both the driver and a passenger lost their lives as a result of the crash. The identities of the individuals were not immediately made public following the incident while officials worked to confirm next of kin and gather all necessary information. The Coroner’s Office has since identified Smith as one of the individuals who died, but it remains unclear whether he was the driver or the passenger at the time of the collision.
Local authorities, including members of the SCHP’s Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT), responded to the crash scene soon after the report was made. They conducted an on-site investigation, examining vehicle debris, skid marks, and other evidence to help determine the exact circumstances that led to the crash. While weather conditions were not reported as a contributing factor, investigators are looking into other possible causes such as speed, vehicle malfunction, or driver distraction.
Emergency medical personnel arrived at the scene shortly after the incident was reported, but despite their efforts, both occupants of the SUV were pronounced deceased. The area remained closed for several hours as first responders and investigators worked to process the scene and ensure that the roadway was safe to reopen for traffic.
In the days following the accident, local residents expressed their condolences to the families affected. The stretch of Old Furnace Road where the crash occurred is known to be narrow and curving in certain parts, and several people in the community have voiced concerns over the years about roadway visibility and safety measures. Authorities continue to urge drivers to exercise extra caution when navigating rural or two-lane roads, especially in areas with limited lighting or shoulder space.
The Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office will perform a complete investigation, including toxicology tests and a detailed examination of the vehicle, to help confirm all factors involved in the crash. Officials said it may take several weeks before a full report is finalized and released to the public.
Meanwhile, the South Carolina Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to remain alert and avoid distractions while on the road. They emphasized the importance of wearing seat belts at all times and ensuring that vehicles are properly maintained. While no additional details about the crash have been disclosed, law enforcement has stated that there is currently no indication of foul play.
FOX Carolina reported that it has reached out to the coroner’s office for clarification on whether Smith was driving or riding as a passenger during the crash, but that information has not yet been confirmed.
The tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly life can change on the road. Authorities and safety officials continue to use such incidents as opportunities to encourage safer driving habits, both in Spartanburg County and across the state of South Carolina.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to provide closure for the families affected by this heartbreaking event.
