Laurens, South Carolina – Richard Ealwinne, 30, of Clinton, South Carolina, has been identified as the victim in a fatal car crash that occurred early Sunday morning, September 15, 2024, following a police chase. According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the accident took place at 1:25 a.m. on the South Harper Street extension near Burnt Mill Creek Road.
The incident began when Laurens Police officers attempted to stop a 2020 Chevy Sudan, whose driver was suspected of being inebriated. The driver fled, leading to a high-speed chase during which the car went off the road, struck a tree, and overturned multiple times. Authorities reported that drugs and a firearm were abandoned from the vehicle during the chase.
Sadly, Richard Ealwinne, the driver, was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger, who was critically injured, was airlifted to a Greenville hospital. The Laurens County Coroner’s Office officially identified Ealwinne as the deceased.
“This tragic event serves as a reminder of the dangers of impaired driving,” said Laurens Police Chief Heath Copland. He added that the department would continue to work with state authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident.
The community has been sharing their condolences and prayers for Ealwinne’s family on social media. Among the heartfelt messages, several people expressed their grief and support for the family.
Sanders-Thompson Mortuary posted, “Our sincere condolences and prayers go out to the family of Mr. Ealwinne (Earl) Richard, of Clinton, South Carolina.”
Other Facebook users shared their thoughts as well:
- Unita Harris: "Much for the family."
- Jeraline Toland: "Sending my sincere condolences and prayers to the family."
- Lana Martin: "Praying for the family."
- Marie Scurry: "Condolences to the family."
- Shirley Richard: "Family and friends, you are in my prayers. May God give you strength during this sad time."
- Timothy Williams Sr.: "Praying."
- Lucille Pyles Vance: "Praying for the family."
Richard Ealwinne’s obituary and funeral arrangements will be released by the family in due course. Visitation hours are set to take place at 2983 S. Harper St. Ext., Laurens, South Carolina, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.