News Summary
A tragic head-on collision on Rudy Mason Parkway in Aiken has claimed the life of 40-year-old Joshua Millard. The accident, which occurred in the morning, involved Millard’s minivan crossing the centerline and impacting a tractor-trailer. Emergency services pronounced him dead at the scene, while the tractor-trailer driver was hospitalized. Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to determine the cause of the crash, highlighting concerns about road safety in the area.
Aiken, South Carolina – A fatal head-on collision occurred Wednesday morning on Rudy Mason Parkway, resulting in the death of a 40-year-old man identified as Joshua Millard. The incident took place around 8:15 a.m. at the intersection of Rudy Mason Parkway and Willow Run Road.
According to reports, Millard was driving a 2005 Chrysler minivan heading east when his vehicle crossed the centerline and collided with a westbound 2024 tractor-trailer at the intersection. Emergency responders pronounced Millard dead at the scene at approximately 8:35 a.m. from blunt-force injuries. An autopsy has been scheduled for Thursday in Newberry.
The driver of the tractor-trailer sustained injuries and has been transported to a local hospital for treatment. The Aiken Department of Public Safety has indicated that Rudy Mason Parkway will remain closed between Willow Run Road and Old Wagener Road for an extended period as authorities manage the aftermath of the crash and conduct their investigation.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently handling the investigation into this tragic incident. As further details about the crash emerge, authorities remain focused on determining the cause of the accident and the circumstances that led to Millard’s vehicle crossing into oncoming traffic.
This collision follows another fatal incident in the area, where a woman named Summer Poole lost her life in a motorcycle crash on Saturday. The driver involved in that incident, 55-year-old Christopher Hogan, was arrested and charged with felony driving under the influence.
These recent accidents highlight ongoing concerns about road safety in Aiken County. Local officials and law enforcement agencies are likely to stress the importance of adhering to traffic laws and being vigilant while driving to prevent further tragedies.
The community is grappling with the repercussions of these incidents, and the impact is felt locally as families, friends, and neighbors mourn the losses of their loved ones. As the investigations continue, Aiken County residents are urged to drive cautiously and be aware of their surroundings on the road.
Authorities will provide updated information regarding the investigations as it becomes available. Meanwhile, residents are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement as they work diligently to gather more facts about these unfortunate events.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: 40-year-old victim identified in fatal Aiken County crash
- WJBF: Aiken Co. head-on collision leaves one driver dead
- Augusta Chronicle: Aiken authorities investigate head-on collision
- Post and Courier: Aiken County fatal collision
- WACH: Driver dies in head-on collision with tractor-trailer
- Wikipedia: Road safety
- Google Search: Traffic Safety
- Google Scholar: Car Accident Statistics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic
- Google News: Aiken County Traffic Accidents

Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.


