Nathaniel Cooper Obituary, Death – A tragic collision early Saturday morning claimed the life of a young South Carolina man when his vehicle collided head-on with a privately-owned ambulance. According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the fatal crash occurred around 2:35 a.m. on July 27 on U.S. Highway 17 Alternate, near Sullivan’s Landing Road. Authorities reported that a 2004 Toyota sedan, which was heading south, crossed into the northbound lane and crashed into a 2016 Ford ambulance. The impact was severe.
The driver of the Toyota, identified as 22-year-old Nathaniel Cooper from Adams Run, was the sole occupant of his vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene by responding officials. The Dorchester County Coroner’s Office confirmed Cooper’s identity and said an autopsy is scheduled for July 30 to provide further clarity about the incident.
There were two individuals inside the ambulance at the time of the crash, but fortunately, neither sustained any injuries. The ambulance, officials confirmed, was not a public emergency vehicle but was instead owned and operated by MedTrust, a private mobile healthcare company based in South Carolina. A representative from Dorchester County later verified the company’s connection to the ambulance involved in the crash.
Although emergency personnel responded quickly to the scene, there was little that could be done to save Cooper. The highway was temporarily closed during the early morning hours as authorities investigated the scene and cleared debris from the roadway.
Investigators from the South Carolina Highway Patrol continue to look into the circumstances that led to the deadly collision. No further details about what may have caused Cooper’s car to cross the center line have been released. Officials have not stated whether speed, weather, mechanical issues, or other factors may have played a role in the crash.
The community of Adams Run is mourning the loss of Cooper, described by those who knew him as a young man with a bright future. His death adds to the growing number of traffic-related fatalities reported this year in South Carolina, highlighting continued concerns about road safety and nighttime driving hazards.
Authorities have asked anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information about the moments leading up to the incident to come forward as they work to determine exactly what happened.
As the investigation remains ongoing, officials urge all drivers to exercise caution when on the road, especially during late-night hours when visibility is reduced and the likelihood of fatigue or impaired driving increases.
The loss of Nathaniel Cooper has left a deep impact on his family and local community. Support has poured in through social media as friends and neighbors express their condolences and share memories of the 22-year-old.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol and Dorchester County Coroner’s Office will release additional updates once more information is gathered.