News Summary
Aiken County is grieving the loss of 28-year-old Summer Poole, who died in a two-vehicle crash on Whiskey Road. The accident involved her motorcycle and a Civic driven by Christopher Hogan, who now faces felony DUI charges. Many in the community are sharing their condolences and memories of Summer, highlighting the impact of this tragic incident on the local area.
Aiken County is mourning the loss of a 28-year-old motorcyclist, Summer Poole, who tragically died in a two-vehicle crash on Saturday evening. The Aiken County Coroner’s Office confirmed her death, which occurred at approximately 6:09 p.m. at the intersection of Whiskey Road and Chukker Creek Road.
Summer Poole was riding a 2003 Honda motorcycle southbound on Whiskey Road when a Honda Civic driven by 55-year-old Christopher Hogan of Aiken turned into her path, resulting in a fatal collision. Emergency personnel arrived promptly but pronounced Poole deceased at the scene at 6:53 p.m. Hogan is now facing charges of felony driving under the influence – causing death, and as of Sunday, he is being held without bond.
An autopsy for Summer Poole has been scheduled for the following week in Newberry. In the wake of the incident, many individuals have taken to social media to express their grief and remember her fondly. Summer was known for frequently riding her motorcycle alongside her husband, Billy Poole, whom she married in 2021.
Jamie Brogden, Summer’s mother, has reported that both the driver and his wife were intoxicated at the time of the crash. She shared that Summer was proceeding straight through the intersection when the Civic made a left turn directly into her path, leading to the tragic accident.
The Aiken Department of Public Safety and the Coroner’s Office are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. During the investigation, traffic in the area was redirected, but the roads have since reopened.
Crash Details
Details surrounding the accident indicate that traffic conditions were normal when the collision occurred, and no other vehicles were involved. The prompt arrival of emergency services underscores the urgency of the situation, but unfortunately, it was too late to save Poole.
Community Reaction
The community reaction has been one of profound sorrow, with many locals expressing their condolences and sharing memories of Summer Poole on various platforms. She was remembered not only as a dedicated motorcyclist but also as a cherished member of the New Ellenton community.
Legal Proceedings
As the investigation unfolds, the legal implications for Hogan are significant. Facing the serious charge of felony DUI, the outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences, not only for him but also for the community that is mourning the loss of Poole.
Background Context
Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe consequences due to the vulnerability of riders in traffic conditions. The intersection where this accident took place has been the site of numerous safety discussions aimed at improving driver awareness and reducing the risk of collisions. This incident underscores the importance of road safety and the impact that underage drinking and driving can have on families and entire communities.
In the days to come, as the investigation continues and the autopsy results are reviewed, the community of Aiken County will likely come together to honor Summer Poole’s memory and reflect on the reality of traffic safety during the upcoming motorcycle riding season.
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Additional Resources
- The Augusta Press: Aiken County Motorcyclist Killed in Crash
- WJBF: Fatal Crash in Aiken County Claims Motorcycle Driver’s Life
- WRDW: Motorcyclist Dead After Crash in Aiken
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Motorcycle Accidents
- The State: Fatal Collision Investigation
- Google Search: Aiken County Traffic Safety
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.
