Abby Katherine Davis, Thomas Chandler Davis Cause Of Death: The Laurens County Coroner’s Office has identified the two victims who lost their lives in a tragic boating accident on Lake Greenwood over the holiday weekend. Thomas Chandler Davis and Abby Katherine Davis, both 23 years old, were killed in the fatal collision on Sunday, July 6. The coroner confirmed that the pair died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.
Both Thomas and Abby Davis were recent graduates of Clemson University, having earned their degrees in August 2024. Clemson University issued a statement expressing sorrow over the loss, saying, “We are saddened to hear the news of these alumni who lost their lives far too soon. Our hearts go out to the families, friends and loved ones impacted by this tragedy.”
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) responded to the scene of the crash and provided details about the incident. Investigators say an Alumacraft boat carrying five individuals was struck from behind by a Yamaha boat, which had two people onboard. Thomas and Abby Davis were among the passengers on the Alumacraft vessel.
Two additional individuals were taken to the hospital for treatment following the crash. The extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.
Laurens County Coroner Patti Canupp extended her condolences to the grieving families. “Those families are going to need a lot of prayers, that’s for sure,” she said. “They just lost two kids who had just graduated from Clemson and had their whole lives ahead of them.”
Canupp also issued a reminder to the public about the importance of responsible behavior while operating any type of vehicle. “Be responsible and don’t drink and get behind the wheel of a boat, car, jet ski or whatever they get behind,” she said. “Just be a little bit responsible because you have hurt the lives of a lot of people.”
The SCDNR has charged 37-year-old Allen Sidney Benware Jr. III with two counts of felony boating under the influence in connection to the crash. Investigators allege that Benware was operating the Yamaha boat that collided with the Davis’ boat. According to authorities, his vessel had no navigation lights turned on at the time of the incident and ran over the top of the other boat.
Benware appeared in court on Monday and was denied bond, according to the coroner’s office.
The case remains under active investigation by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, as authorities continue gathering evidence and witness statements to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the deadly collision.
