In a devastating traffic incident on Friday, October 25, 2024, a 73-year-old motorcyclist identified as Ray Prosser from Florence County, South Carolina, lost his life after a tragic collision with a commercial truck. The accident occurred around noon on the U.S. Highway 378 (known locally as Myrtle Beach Highway) near Brewington Road, a roadway frequented by travelers, locals, and transport vehicles linking major routes between Florence and Myrtle Beach.
According to South Carolina Highway Patrol Corporal David Jones, the incident took place under unexpected circumstances that startled many in the area. Prosser, who was riding a 1990 Honda motorcycle, had somehow entered the westbound lanes while heading east. This misplacement led to a catastrophic head-on crash with an oncoming 1985 Oshkosh commercial truck. Tragically, the impact proved fatal for Prosser, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the truck, whose identity has not been released, fortunately escaped injury and was observed to be physically unharmed. Although the driver was not injured, he remained at the scene to cooperate fully with investigating authorities. He also provided an account of the incident, which has been invaluable to the Highway Patrol’s investigation.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol swiftly arrived on-site to manage the situation, direct traffic, and initiate an investigation into the sequence of events leading to the crash. The presence of law enforcement and emergency responders drew the attention of many in the area, and traffic was rerouted to ensure the investigation could proceed without interference and to protect passersby from potential hazards near the scene.
The early investigative findings indicate that Prosser’s motorcycle was already traveling against oncoming traffic when the collision happened, yet the reasons he was driving in the wrong lane remain unclear. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is conducting a thorough probe to understand what might have caused the motorcyclist to enter the westbound lane in error. They are exploring several possible contributing factors, including mechanical issues with the motorcycle, road conditions, and potential driver confusion, especially as Mr. Prosser was an elderly rider on an older model motorcycle. Investigators are expected to review surveillance footage, examine evidence collected at the scene, and possibly consult witnesses who may have seen the motorcyclist in the minutes leading up to the tragic incident.
Florence County Coroner Robbie Baker confirmed that an autopsy for Ray Prosser is scheduled for Tuesday, October 29, at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. This procedure aims to determine if there were any underlying health conditions that could have affected Prosser’s awareness, reaction time, or ability to control his vehicle. While initial reports don’t suggest any such medical issues, authorities are taking a comprehensive approach to rule out any possible influence of health factors on his driving behavior that day.
The crash has prompted the local South Carolina Highway Patrol office to reiterate the importance of road safety and situational awareness, particularly for those who ride motorcycles. Officials caution both motorcyclists and motorists to remain vigilant on all highway and rural roadways, emphasizing that older models of motorcycles may require extra attention and handling considerations due to potential age-related mechanical limitations. In response to this incident, the department may also review the need for clearer roadway signage and increased lighting along stretches of U.S. 378, particularly near intersections where the chances of wrong-way driving might be higher, especially in challenging weather or lighting conditions.
Corporal Jones and his team continue to assess the details surrounding this unfortunate accident, underscoring their commitment to uncovering the facts and ensuring roadways remain as safe as possible for the community. Meanwhile, the tragic passing of Ray Prosser has resonated with many in the Florence County area, where he was a well-known figure with a deep love for motorcycles. His friends and family remember him as an adventurous spirit who had a passion for the open road.
As investigators work to bring closure to this case, the local community and the South Carolina Highway Patrol remind all drivers to practice extreme caution on highways, be alert to all road signage, and stay attentive to unexpected situations. This incident has underscored the ever-present risks of road travel, inspiring a renewed call to prioritize safety and awareness across all levels of vehicle operation.
A funeral service for Ray Prosser is expected to be announced following the completion of the autopsy. The family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community during this difficult time. They ask for privacy as they come to terms with the sudden loss of their loved one and prepare to celebrate his life in a way that honors his memory and passion for riding.
