In the early hours of Saturday, tragedy struck on U.S. Highway 176, just two miles outside Saint Matthews in Calhoun County, South Carolina. Richard Blacks, affectionately known by family and friends as Tony Black, lost his life after being struck in a fatal pedestrian crash. The incident occurred just before 3 a.m., sending shockwaves through the community and leaving loved ones grappling with the sudden and heartbreaking loss.
The fatal accident took place along a stretch of road known for its rural setting and limited street lighting. While specifics of the accident remain under investigation, initial reports from local authorities indicate that Tony Black was walking along the highway when he was struck by a vehicle. Emergency responders were dispatched immediately to the scene, but despite their efforts, Tony Black succumbed to his injuries. The driver involved remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators as they continue to piece together the details of what led to this tragic event.
Richard “Tony” Blacks, 47, was a well-known and beloved figure in the community. Born and raised in Calhoun County, Tony was described by friends, family, and acquaintances as a kind-hearted man who always greeted others with a smile. His untimely death has sent waves of grief through Saint Matthews and beyond, where his impact on the lives of those around him will not soon be forgotten.
Tony’s life was woven into the fabric of the tight-knit community where he lived and worked. His friends recall how Tony could often be found lending a helping hand to those in need, whether that meant assisting a neighbor with a repair or offering words of encouragement to someone going through a tough time. He had a natural ability to connect with people, drawing them in with his humor, warmth, and genuine interest in their well-being.
He had an infectious spirit, one that endeared him to many. One of Tony’s neighbors shared, “He always knew how to make you laugh, no matter how hard your day was going. He had this way of lighting up the room without even trying.” Others echoed similar sentiments, speaking to his compassion, loyalty, and steadfast dedication to family and friends. Many described him as a “people person” who had a special gift for bringing joy to others’ lives, a gift that will be sorely missed in the community.
Tony worked in construction for most of his adult life, a field that allowed him to use his hands to create and build—a craft he took pride in. His coworkers admired his work ethic, dedication, and the mentorship he often provided to younger laborers. “Tony was the guy you went to if you needed advice or just someone to talk to on the job,” recalled one coworker. “He wasn’t just a coworker; he was a friend, someone you could count on.”
Beyond work, Tony was passionate about the outdoors and often spent his free time fishing at the local rivers or taking long walks through the woods. He found peace in nature, which he once described as his “place to think.” This love for the outdoors made his tragic death all the more painful for those who knew him well. Many expressed their disbelief and sorrow that a man who spent so much of his time appreciating the beauty of the world could have his life taken so abruptly on a dark highway.
Tony’s family, devastated by the sudden loss, has asked for privacy as they come to terms with the enormity of what has happened. They have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community, which has rallied around them during this incredibly difficult time. His sister, who was particularly close to Tony, shared that “he was always there for me, for our family, through thick and thin. He wasn’t just my brother, he was my best friend.” The bond they shared is one of the countless relationships impacted by Tony’s death, leaving a deep sense of loss in its wake.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigators are looking into all aspects of the incident, including the lighting conditions at the time of the crash, the speed of the vehicle involved, and whether any other factors may have contributed to the collision. Authorities have not yet released the name of the driver involved in the accident, and no charges have been filed as of yet.
Pedestrian deaths on highways remain a critical concern for safety officials across the United States. Rural highways, like U.S. Highway 176, are particularly hazardous for pedestrians due to limited visibility, higher speed limits, and the lack of sidewalks or pedestrian pathways. Nighttime crashes, such as the one that claimed Tony’s life, are especially dangerous, as drivers often have difficulty seeing individuals walking along or near the roadway. As tragic as Tony’s death is, his passing serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers pedestrians face on rural roads, especially in the dark hours of early morning.
The community of Saint Matthews has been profoundly affected by Tony’s death. In the wake of the tragedy, several local organizations and individuals have stepped forward to offer assistance to the Blacks family. Plans for a memorial service are currently being discussed, with many of Tony’s friends expressing a desire to honor him in a way that reflects the joy and positivity he brought into their lives.
A small vigil was held near the site of the accident, where local residents gathered to light candles, share memories, and pay tribute to Tony’s life. “We wanted to come together to remember him and to show our support for his family,” said one attendee. “He touched a lot of lives, and we want to make sure that his memory lives on.” The vigil, while somber, was also a celebration of Tony’s spirit—his laughter, his generosity, and the love he showed to those around him.
In the days and weeks following the accident, the town is expected to come together in a show of solidarity for Tony’s family. Fundraising efforts are already underway to help cover funeral expenses, and a GoFundMe page has been set up to support his family during this incredibly difficult time. Friends and coworkers have also begun organizing a community event to commemorate Tony’s life, which will likely include a celebration of his love for fishing and the outdoors—a final tribute to a man who cherished life in all its simplicity and beauty.
As the investigation into the accident continues, Tony’s death leaves behind many unanswered questions. However, one thing is clear: Richard “Tony” Blacks left an indelible mark on those who knew him. His loss will be felt deeply by his family, friends, coworkers, and the broader community of Saint Matthews, all of whom will miss his light, his kindness, and his unwavering friendship. Tony’s passing is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those we love.
Funeral arrangements for Richard “Tony” Blacks have yet to be finalized, and the family is expected to release details in the coming days. The community will no doubt continue to rally around them, offering support, love, and prayers during this time of profound grief. Tony’s legacy will endure in the stories told by those who knew him best, in the lives he touched, and in the memories shared by a community that loved him dearly.
