Aiken County, January 18, 2026

The Aiken County Coroner’s Office has officially ruled the death of five-year-old Merinn Purcell, who was struck by a car in her front yard, as accidental. This incident occurred on New Year’s Eve on Raborn Road. The ongoing investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol and Saluda County First Responders aims to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event and determine contributing factors.

Aiken County

Child’s Tragic Death on New Year’s Eve Ruled Accidental

The death of five-year-old Merinn Purcell, who was struck and killed by a car in Aiken County on New Year’s Eve, has officially been ruled accidental, according to local authorities. The tragic incident, which occurred on December 31, 2025, in the front yard of a home on Raborn Road, has prompted an ongoing investigation by relevant agencies.

Merinn Purcell, aged five, was in the front yard of a residence located on Raborn Road when she was struck by a vehicle. The Aiken County Coroner’s Office confirmed her identity and the accidental nature of her death. This determination by the coroner’s office provides an official cause and manner of death following their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Investigation Details and Agency Involvement

The investigation into the circumstances leading to Merinn Purcell’s death is being conducted by the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Additionally, Saluda County First Responders are also involved in the ongoing investigative efforts related to the incident. Their combined work aims to thoroughly examine all aspects of the event that led to the child’s fatality.

The classification of the death as accidental signifies that the incident was an unintentional act, without criminal intent. Such rulings are made after careful review of evidence, including the scene, witness statements, and any other pertinent information gathered by investigators. The agencies involved will continue to process information and determine any contributing factors to the tragic event.

Community Impact and Ongoing Procedures

The incident has deeply affected the Aiken County community. The loss of a young child in such circumstances is a profound tragedy that resonates widely. While the coroner’s ruling addresses the manner of death, the investigative process by law enforcement typically continues to ensure all protocols were followed and to establish a full account of the events. This involves examining vehicle mechanics, driver actions, and environmental conditions at the time of the incident on Raborn Road.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is responsible for investigating traffic collisions across the state, including those involving fatalities. Their comprehensive approach ensures a detailed understanding of how such incidents occur. The involvement of Saluda County First Responders, alongside the Highway Patrol, indicates a coordinated effort in addressing the aftermath and investigation stemming from the event on New Year’s Eve. The community remains focused on supporting those affected by this tragic accident in Aiken County.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What happened in Aiken County on New Year’s Eve?

A five-year-old child, Merinn Purcell, was struck and killed by a car in the front yard of a home on Raborn Road in Aiken County on December 31, 2025.

What was the official ruling regarding the child’s death?

The death of five-year-old Merinn Purcell has been officially ruled accidental by local authorities.

Who was the child involved in the incident?

The victim was identified as five-year-old Merinn Purcell.

Where did the incident occur?

The incident occurred in the front yard of a home located on Raborn Road in Aiken County.

Which agencies are investigating the incident?

The South Carolina Highway Patrol and Saluda County First Responders are investigating the incident.

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Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN

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