News Summary
A tragic head-on collision on Silver Bluff Road in Aiken, South Carolina, resulted in the death of 72-year-old Sylvia Simpkins. The accident occurred when her Chevrolet Camaro collided with a Dodge RAM pickup truck. Despite immediate medical attention, Simpkins was pronounced dead shortly after the crash. Local authorities are investigating the incident, emphasizing concerns over safety in this area known for similar accidents.
Aiken Woman Dies in Two-Vehicle Collision on Silver Bluff Road
An Aiken woman was pronounced dead shortly after a head-on collision on Silver Bluff Road (SC-302) in Aiken, South Carolina, on Thursday, January 9, 2025. The accident, which involved a 1991 Chevrolet Camaro and a 2015 Dodge RAM pickup truck, occurred at approximately 11:46 AM near the intersection of SC-302 and Bonnie Lane, just west of Aiken.
The driver of the Chevrolet Camaro, Sylvia Simpkins, 72, was traveling east when the collision happened. The Dodge RAM, driven by another unidentified motorist, was heading west on SC-302 at the time of the crash. Following the impact, Simpkins sustained serious injuries and was promptly transported to a local hospital for emergency treatment.
Tragically, Sylvia Simpkins was pronounced dead at 12:42 PM, less than an hour after the incident. The driver of the Dodge RAM remained unharmed and did not suffer any injuries from the collision. Authorities have initiated an investigation into the crash, with the Aiken County Coroner’s Office working alongside the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP).
A toxicology analysis is currently pending in order to ascertain any contributing factors to the accident. Investigators have not disclosed details regarding potential causes or whether any charges may be forthcoming.
Background on Accident-Prone Area
This segment of Silver Bluff Road has been noted for having a higher rate of fatal accidents, raising concerns among local residents and safety advocates. Recent studies have indicated that particular areas along SC-302, including the vicinity where this collision occurred, exhibit an alarming frequency of dangerous incidents. Efforts to improve road safety in these high-risk areas have become a topic of ongoing discussion within the community.
The SCHP continues to monitor traffic conditions and actively conducts investigations into accidents occurring on South Carolina highways, particularly in regions identified as hazardous. The ongoing investigation into this particular incident is expected to offer insights into safety measures that may need to be evaluated or implemented to better protect drivers in the area.
As of now, both families involved in this tragic event are undoubtedly facing significant challenges in the wake of the accident, and support from the local community is anticipated to be crucial during this difficult time.
Authorities encourage drivers to remain vigilant and exercise caution when navigating this section of Silver Bluff Road, as continued awareness regarding road safety can help reduce the risk of similar accidents occurring in the future.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Aiken Woman Dies in Two-Vehicle Collision
- Google Search: Aiken traffic accidents
- WJBF: One Person Dead After Fatal Collision
- Wikipedia: Traffic accidents
- Post and Courier: Aiken Fatal Collision
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Road Safety
- Augusta Press: Aiken County Man Dies in ATV Accident
- Google News: Aiken 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.


