Aiken County, January 13, 2026
A tragic accident in Aiken County resulted in the death of 61-year-old Donald Rushton from Salley when his moped was struck by a pickup truck. The crash occurred on Walker Road and is under investigation by local authorities. The incident marks the first reported fatal crash in the area this year, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding road safety.
Salley, South Carolina
Fatal Collision Claims Life of Salley Man in Aiken County
A Salley man, 61-year-old Donald Rushton, tragically died Saturday evening following a two-vehicle collision involving a moped and a pickup truck in Aiken County. The crash, which occurred on Walker Road, is currently under investigation by local authorities.
Details of the Incident
The fatal accident took place around 7:45 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Donald Rushton was operating a 2018 Hozhou three-wheeled moped, traveling northbound on Walker Road. Simultaneously, a 2011 Toyota Tundra pickup truck, also heading north, struck Rushton’s moped from behind. Emergency personnel responded to the scene, where Mr. Rushton was pronounced deceased at approximately 8:25 p.m.
The driver of the Toyota Tundra sustained injuries in the collision and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention. No other injuries were reported as a result of the crash. Authorities have not yet released information regarding whether safety restraints or helmets were in use by those involved in the incident.
Ongoing Investigation and Autopsy
The Aiken County Coroner’s Office, under the direction of Coroner Darryl Ables, is leading the investigation into the cause and circumstances of Mr. Rushton’s death. Collaborating with the Coroner’s Office is the South Carolina Highway Patrol’s Multi-Disciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT), which specializes in comprehensive crash reconstruction. As part of the investigative process, an autopsy for Mr. Rushton has been scheduled to take place in Newberry in the coming week. Such examinations are crucial for determining the exact manner and cause of death, providing vital information to investigators. The Coroner’s Office is responsible for investigating violent, sudden, and unattended deaths, which includes all accidents.
The investigative team will examine various factors, including vehicle speeds, driver actions, road conditions, and any other elements that may have contributed to the collision. This thorough approach aims to establish a clear understanding of how the tragic event unfolded.
Road Safety Context in South Carolina
This incident marks the first fatal crash reported in Aiken County in the new year. Statewide data indicates a concerning trend in traffic fatalities. Through January 4, 2026, at least five individuals had already lost their lives on South Carolina roads this year. Looking back at 2025, the state experienced a minimum of 914 fatalities from collisions. Specifically, in Aiken County, 2025 saw at least 23 people die in traffic accidents.
These statistics underscore the importance of continuous vigilance and adherence to traffic laws for all road users. Motorists, moped riders, and pedestrians alike are urged to exercise caution and prioritize safety to prevent further tragedies on the roads. The South Carolina Highway Patrol regularly emphasizes safe driving practices, including avoiding distracted driving, obeying speed limits, and never driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The ongoing investigations into fatal crashes contribute to understanding common causes and informing future public safety initiatives. Coroner’s offices, such as the Aiken County Coroner’s Office, play a critical role in providing data on traffic fatalities, which is essential for identifying patterns and implementing effective prevention strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in Aiken County on Saturday evening?
A 61-year-old Salley man, Donald Rushton, was killed in a two-vehicle collision involving a moped and a pickup truck on Walker Road in Aiken County on Saturday evening.
Who was the victim of the crash?
The victim was identified as 61-year-old Donald Rushton from Salley.
What types of vehicles were involved in the collision?
The collision involved a 2018 Hozhou three-wheeled moped, operated by Donald Rushton, and a 2011 Toyota Tundra pickup truck.
When did the accident occur?
The accident occurred around 7:45 p.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
Where exactly did the crash take place?
The crash took place on Walker Road in Aiken County, South Carolina.
Who is investigating the crash?
The Aiken County Coroner’s Office and the South Carolina Highway Patrol’s Multi-Disciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) are investigating the crash.
Were there other injuries reported?
The driver of the Toyota Tundra pickup truck was injured and transported to a hospital, but no other injuries were reported.
Is an autopsy being conducted?
Yes, an autopsy for Mr. Rushton has been scheduled for the following week in Newberry.
How many traffic fatalities have occurred in South Carolina in 2026 so far?
Through January 4, 2026, at least five people had died on South Carolina roads.
How many traffic fatalities occurred in Aiken County in 2025?
At least 23 people died in crashes in Aiken County in 2025.
Key Details of the Aiken County Fatal Crash
| Victim Name | Donald Rushton |
| Victim Age | 61 years old |
| Victim Residence | Salley, South Carolina |
| Date of Incident | Saturday, January 10, 2026 |
| Time of Incident | Approximately 7:45 p.m. |
| Location of Incident | Walker Road, Aiken County, South Carolina |
| Vehicles Involved | 2018 Hozhou three-wheeled moped and 2011 Toyota Tundra pickup truck |
| Direction of Travel | Both vehicles northbound |
| Investigating Authorities | Aiken County Coroner’s Office, South Carolina Highway Patrol’s MAIT |
| Autopsy Scheduled | Yes, in Newberry |
| Other Injuries | Driver of pickup truck injured and hospitalized |
| Aiken County Fatalities (2025) | At least 23 people |
| South Carolina Fatalities (2026, as of Jan 4) | At least 5 people |
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@WFXGFOX54 (January 12, 2026, 12:31 PM): Aiken County officials are investigating after a Salley man was killed in a two-vehicle crash Saturday evening.
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Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
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