A Lexington County man died Saturday afternoon following a single-vehicle crash in the Batesburg area, according to authorities.
The Lexington County Coroner’s Office identified the driver as 57-year-old Michael Albert Temples of Batesburg. Coroner Margaret Fisher classified the incident as an accident.
According to South Carolina Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Haven Road. Lance Cpl. Nick Pye reported that Temples was driving a 2014 Chevrolet pickup eastbound when the vehicle left the roadway near the intersection of Haven Road and J J Parrish Road.
Authorities said the pickup traveled off the left side of the road, entered a ditch, and struck a tree. Temples was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials noted that he was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. No other injuries were reported.
Investigators have not released information regarding what may have caused the vehicle to leave the roadway. The South Carolina Highway Patrol and the Lexington County Coroner’s Office continue to review the circumstances surrounding the collision.
The incident comes amid ongoing concerns about traffic safety across the state. Data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety shows that through February 8, at least 55 people had died on South Carolina roads in 2026.
In 2025, a minimum of 914 fatalities were reported statewide as a result of traffic collisions, according to DPS figures. In Lexington County alone, at least seven people have died in crashes so far this year. The county recorded 40 traffic-related deaths in 2025, based on state data.
Officials routinely encourage drivers to follow posted speed limits, remain attentive behind the wheel, and wear seatbelts. Law enforcement agencies continue to emphasize that safe driving practices can help reduce the number of serious and fatal crashes on South Carolina roadways.
Anyone with information related to Saturday’s crash is encouraged to contact the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Authorities say updates will be provided if additional details become available as the investigation progresses.
