Margaret Mallet Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities in Beaufort County have confirmed the identity of a driver who died following a crash near the Sun City Boulevard gate over the weekend. The tragic collision occurred on U.S. 278, where two vehicles collided, resulting in injuries to both drivers and the death of one.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP), the accident took place shortly after 10 a.m. on Saturday morning. The crash involved a Nissan Sentra and an Acura, both traveling on U.S. 278 when the collision occurred. The exact circumstances leading up to the crash remain under investigation, with authorities working to determine contributing factors such as speed, roadway conditions, and driver actions.
Emergency responders arrived promptly at the scene to provide medical assistance to both drivers. Both individuals were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, the driver of the Nissan Sentra succumbed to injuries sustained in the collision despite emergency efforts to save them.
On Tuesday, the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office officially identified the deceased driver as Margaret Mallet, an 81-year-old resident of Bluffton. The coroner’s office confirmed that she passed away from injuries sustained in the crash, marking a tragic loss for her family and the local community.
Authorities have not released further information regarding the condition of the driver of the Acura, who survived the crash, though both drivers were initially reported as injured. Law enforcement emphasized that their priority is ensuring a thorough investigation to establish the factors that led to the collision and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol has taken the lead on investigating the crash. Officers at the scene are collecting evidence, including vehicle positions, roadway conditions, and any potential witness accounts that could shed light on the sequence of events. The investigation will also include reviewing whether any traffic violations, mechanical failures, or environmental factors played a role in the accident.
Single-vehicle and multi-vehicle collisions remain a leading cause of roadway fatalities, particularly for older adults, who may be more vulnerable to severe injury in vehicle accidents. The loss of Margaret Mallet underscores the dangers that can arise from everyday driving, even on familiar roads in residential areas like Bluffton and Sun City.
Community members have expressed sorrow over the death of Mallet, describing her as a well-known and respected figure in the area. Residents emphasized the sudden and unexpected nature of such accidents, highlighting the importance of caution while driving and awareness of traffic conditions. Many have called for increased attention to road safety measures in the Sun City area, especially along U.S. 278, which is a frequently traveled thoroughfare connecting neighborhoods, local businesses, and community facilities.
Officials continue to encourage anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to come forward. Witness accounts, security footage, or dashcam recordings can provide vital insights for investigators and may help clarify exactly what led to the collision.
While the investigation is ongoing, the SCHP has reassured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to determine the cause of the crash. Authorities remain focused on conducting a thorough review, from evaluating the vehicles involved to examining environmental conditions at the time of the incident.
The weekend crash near Sun City Boulevard stands as a sobering reminder of the potential hazards of daily driving and the importance of vigilance on the road. The death of Margaret Mallet leaves a profound impact on her family, friends, and the Bluffton community, highlighting the need for continued focus on traffic safety and accident prevention.
