Jacob Babayan Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities in Pickens County are investigating a tragic accident that resulted in the death of a young man following a collision between a motorcycle and a CATbus in Central earlier this week. According to reports from the Pickens County Coroner’s Office, the incident occurred on Monday afternoon, October 13, at approximately 4:20 p.m. Emergency personnel were dispatched to the area of West Main Street near Vickery Drive after receiving reports of a serious crash involving a motorcycle and a public transit bus.
Upon arrival, first responders found the driver of the motorcycle with severe injuries. Despite emergency efforts, the rider was pronounced deceased at the scene. The victim has since been identified as 26-year-old Jacob Babayan, a resident of Greer, South Carolina, the coroner’s office confirmed.
Authorities have not yet released further information regarding the circumstances that led to the collision. The specific details about how the crash occurred, the direction in which each vehicle was traveling, and any potential contributing factors—such as road conditions, traffic flow, or visibility—are still being examined by investigators.
The Central Police Department is working closely with the Pickens County Coroner’s Office to determine the sequence of events leading up to the accident. They are also reviewing any available traffic camera footage and speaking with witnesses in hopes of clarifying what happened in the moments before the collision.
While limited information has been shared publicly, officials confirmed that the CATbus involved in the crash was operating its regular route at the time of the incident. No passengers or bus personnel were reported injured, though the accident caused significant traffic disruptions in the area for several hours as emergency crews worked the scene and investigators conducted preliminary assessments.
The portion of West Main Street near Vickery Drive remained closed for some time Monday evening while authorities documented evidence, took measurements, and arranged for the damaged vehicles to be towed. Motorists were advised to use alternate routes until the roadway was cleared.
The Pickens County Coroner’s Office will conduct additional examinations as part of its standard procedure in fatal crash investigations. Once their report is finalized, the findings will be shared with law enforcement to assist in determining whether any further action or recommendations are necessary.
Community members have expressed condolences and shared their sympathy for Babayan’s family and loved ones, who are now grieving his loss. Friends described him as kindhearted and hardworking, someone who loved riding motorcycles and spending time outdoors.
Authorities have not indicated whether any charges are expected to follow as part of this investigation. The case remains open, and officials urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has dashcam footage from that area around 4:20 p.m. Monday to contact the Central Police Department.
This tragic event serves as a solemn reminder of how quickly roadway accidents can occur and how important it is for all motorists—drivers, riders, and pedestrians alike—to stay alert and cautious, especially at busy intersections and along high-traffic corridors.
The Central Police Department and the Pickens County Coroner’s Office continue to work together to piece together the full circumstances surrounding this incident. Updates are expected to be released as more information becomes available.
At this time, no additional details have been made public, and officials are focusing on completing a thorough and respectful investigation to bring clarity to the family and community affected by this heartbreaking loss.
