News Summary

Traffic returned to normal after an overturned 18-wheeler blocked the I-20 westbound ramp in North Augusta. Meanwhile, a tragic construction accident resulted in the death of a worker. Authorities are investigating both incidents, emphasizing safety in road and construction areas.

North Augusta – Traffic returned to normal after an overturned 18-wheeler blocked the Interstate 20 westbound ramp at exit 5 on Tuesday morning. The crash, which occurred around 6:45 a.m., prompted officers from the North Augusta Department of Public Safety to advise morning commuters to seek alternate routes due to the significant blockage. By 10 a.m., traffic conditions improved, and normal flow was restored. Fortunately, the driver of the overturned truck sustained only minor injuries and was treated on the scene.

In a separate incident, a tragic construction accident on Sunday claimed the life of 43-year-old Ray C. Straight from West Virginia. Straight was working as part of a paving crew in the parking lot of Lowe’s located at 1220 Knox Avenue when the accident occurred. The North Augusta Department of Public Safety received a call about the construction incident shortly before 2 p.m., and emergency responders arrived promptly.

Concerns grew as Straight was later found under heavy machinery around 5:04 p.m. Despite attempts to administer CPR, he could not be revived and was pronounced dead at 5:50 p.m. The coroner’s office reported that Straight suffered severe trauma to his head and chest. Witness accounts indicated that Straight had slipped from a ladder of a milling machine and was subsequently run over as the machine reversed.

Moreover, on the same day as the tragic construction accident, another incident occurred when a car crashed into the O’Reilly Auto Parts building on Knox Avenue. Fortunately, no criminal activity was suspected in that incident.

The coroner’s office has scheduled an autopsy for Straight, and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the construction accident is currently underway. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is also seeking public assistance in connection with a hit-and-run incident that took place in nearby McCormick County, though details regarding that case remain sparse at this time.

This combination of incidents has raised awareness about road safety and construction site regulations within the community. The tragic loss of a local worker has left a profound impact on the area, highlighting the inherent dangers present in construction work. Meanwhile, the recovery of traffic flow on Interstate 20 highlights the efficiency of local emergency services in promptly addressing accidents.

As investigations continue, authorities encourage any individuals with information regarding either incident to come forward, as this could assist in providing clarity and context to these unfortunate events. Residents are reminded to exercise caution and remain vigilant while traveling, particularly in construction zones and busy traffic areas.

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Traffic Incident and Construction Accident in North Augusta

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Author: hereaiken