BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – A fatal wrong-way crash on Highway 17A early Monday morning claimed the lives of two women, according to the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office.
Coroner Darnell Hartwell identified the victims as Brianna Barnum, 28, of Summerville, and Miriam Frausto, 36, of North Charleston.
Barnum was pronounced dead at the scene, while Frausto succumbed to her injuries at a nearby hospital.
Details of the Accident
The collision occurred at approximately 3:35 a.m. on Highway 17A. According to Master Trooper William Bennett, Barnum was driving a 2018 Volkswagen, and Frausto was operating a 2013 Buick Enclave.
Both vehicles collided head-on after Frausto, traveling north in the southbound lanes, struck Barnum’s car.
A third vehicle, a 2015 GMC SUV, driven by an unnamed individual, was also involved in the crash. The GMC struck Barnum’s vehicle from behind but its driver was not injured.
The coroner’s office was notified of the incident at 4:34 a.m.
Road Closures and Emergency Response
Highway 17A between Longstreet Street and Kate Lane was closed following the crash but reopened before 7 a.m.
Emergency services, including Berkeley County EMS, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the South Carolina Highway Patrol, and Pine Ridge Fire and Rescue, responded to the scene.
This tragic accident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by wrong-way driving. Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the collision.
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