In a heartbreaking tragedy that has deeply affected the Newberry community and beyond, 47-year-old LaRhonda Davis Gibson and her 23-month-old son, Ketron Menteze Gibson Jr., lost their lives in a devastating crash on Interstate 26 near Chapin, South Carolina. The fatal accident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, August 29, 2024, and has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved them.
The accident took place around 2:45 a.m. when LaRhonda, driving a sedan, was struck from behind by a pick-up truck on I-26. The collision caused her vehicle to crash into a tractor-trailer that had slowed due to oncoming traffic. Both LaRhonda and her young son were tragically pronounced dead at the scene by the Lexington County Coroner’s Office. The incident has not only claimed two precious lives but also has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving friends, family, and residents in mourning.
LaRhonda Davis Gibson was a beloved mother, friend, and community member known for her warm spirit, dedication to her family, and her unwavering strength. As a mother, she was fiercely devoted to her children, always putting their needs and well-being above her own. Her love for her family was evident in every aspect of her life, from the way she cared for her young son Ketron, to the countless sacrifices she made to ensure a better future for her children. LaRhonda’s life was a testament to the power of love and the strength of a mother’s devotion.
Ketron Menteze Gibson Jr., affectionately known as “Junior” by his family and friends, was a bright and energetic 23-month-old who brought immense joy to everyone who knew him. Despite his young age, Ketron had already begun to develop a vibrant personality, full of curiosity and wonder. He loved to explore his surroundings, always eager to discover new things and play with his favorite toys. Ketron’s laughter and innocent smile were a source of happiness for his family, and his loss is a devastating blow to all who cherished him.
The tragic accident that claimed the lives of LaRhonda and Ketron occurred under heartbreaking circumstances. As LaRhonda’s car slowed for traffic on I-26, a pick-up truck collided with the rear of her vehicle, causing a chain reaction that led to her car being crushed between the truck and the tractor-trailer ahead. The impact was severe, leaving no chance for survival for LaRhonda and her young son. The scene of the accident was described as harrowing, with emergency responders and law enforcement working tirelessly to manage the aftermath of the collision and to care for the injured.
The driver and passenger of the pick-up truck were transported to a local hospital with injuries, but their condition has not been disclosed. The South Carolina Highway Patrol and the Lexington County Coroner’s Office are conducting a thorough investigation into the crash, working to determine the exact sequence of events and to assess whether any charges will be filed in connection with the incident. As of now, no charges have been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The loss of LaRhonda and Ketron has had a ripple effect throughout the community, with an outpouring of grief and support from friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have been touched by their story. LaRhonda was known for her kindness and her willingness to help others in need, traits that made her a beloved figure in Newberry. Her passing has left a void that can never be filled, and her memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Ketron’s death, so early in life, is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact that even the youngest among us can have on those around them.
In the days following the tragedy, family members and friends have shared their memories of LaRhonda and Ketron, painting a picture of a devoted mother and her beloved son who were inseparable in life. LaRhonda’s love for Ketron was unconditional, and she took immense pride in being his mother. The bond between them was strong, and they were rarely seen apart. Their sudden and tragic deaths have left a community in mourning, struggling to come to terms with the loss of two lives filled with so much potential and love.
LaRhonda’s life was one of resilience and dedication. She was a mother who worked tirelessly to provide for her family, often going above and beyond to ensure that her children had everything they needed. Despite the challenges she faced, LaRhonda always found a way to keep moving forward, driven by her love for her children and her determination to give them the best life possible. Her strength and courage were admired by all who knew her, and her loss is felt deeply by those who relied on her for support and guidance.
The loss of Ketron is particularly heartbreaking given his young age and the bright future that lay ahead of him. He was a child full of life, with a curious mind and a heart full of love. Ketron’s laughter could light up a room, and his playful nature brought joy to everyone he encountered. His death is a profound tragedy, and the pain of his loss is felt not only by his family but by the entire community.
In the wake of this devastating tragedy, the community has come together to support LaRhonda’s surviving family members. Fundraising efforts have been initiated to assist with funeral expenses and to provide financial support during this incredibly difficult time. The response has been overwhelming, with donations pouring in from those who knew LaRhonda and Ketron as well as from individuals who were moved by their story. The funds raised will help to ensure that LaRhonda and Ketron are laid to rest with the dignity and respect they deserve.
As the community mourns the loss of LaRhonda and Ketron, there is a shared sense of grief and a desire to honor their memory. Vigils have been held, with candles lit and prayers offered for the family. The outpouring of love and support has been a source of comfort for LaRhonda’s surviving family members, who are navigating the unimaginable pain of losing a mother and child in such a sudden and tragic manner.
The investigation into the crash continues, with authorities working diligently to piece together the events that led to the collision. The presence of multiple vehicles in the crash has made the investigation complex, and the South Carolina Highway Patrol is committed to ensuring that a thorough and accurate assessment is conducted. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on supporting the family and honoring the lives of LaRhonda and Ketron.
Funeral arrangements for LaRhonda Davis Gibson and Ketron Menteze Gibson Jr. will be announced in the coming days. The service will be a time for the community to come together to pay their final respects and to celebrate the lives of a mother and her son who were taken far too soon. The loss of LaRhonda and Ketron is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with our loved ones. Their memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved them, and their legacy of love and resilience will continue to inspire all who knew them.
As we reflect on the lives of LaRhonda and Ketron, we are reminded of the profound impact that a single life can have on those around them. LaRhonda’s dedication to her family, her strength in the face of adversity, and her unwavering love for her children are qualities that will be remembered and celebrated by all who knew her. Ketron’s short life, though tragically cut short, was filled with love and joy, and his memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. The loss of LaRhonda and Ketron is a tragedy that has touched the hearts of many, and their memory will live on in the community that loved them.
