Authorities have identified Jeffery Clifton, a 64-year-old resident of Landrum, South Carolina, as the victim of a fatal crash involving a tractor-trailer. The accident occurred on Wednesday at about 3:20 p.m. on Gateway Drive near Brockman McClimon Road in Greer, according to the Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office and South Carolina Highway Patrol. Clifton succumbed to his injuries at Spartanburg Regional Hospital at 8:19 p.m. that evening.
Clifton was driving a 2020 Chevrolet pickup truck when it collided head-on with a tractor-trailer. Emergency responders transported Clifton to the hospital, but despite their efforts, he did not survive. The driver of the tractor-trailer was unharmed in the crash. Coroner Rusty Clevenger later confirmed Clifton’s death, marking a tragic loss for the Landrum community.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the collision. The South Carolina Highway Patrol and the coroner’s office are examining factors such as road conditions, vehicle performance, and driver actions leading up to the crash. At this time, the exact cause of the collision remains unclear.
Gateway Drive, the site of the accident, is a busy route frequently used by local traffic and commercial trucks. Its proximity to Brockman McClimon Road increases traffic density, making it a potential risk zone for serious accidents. Head-on collisions, like the one in this case, often result in severe outcomes due to the high impact forces involved.
Clifton’s death has deeply affected the Landrum community. Friends and neighbors remember him as a kind and dedicated individual. Expressions of condolences have poured in, reflecting the profound sense of loss felt by those who knew him.
This tragedy highlights the importance of road safety, especially in areas with significant truck traffic. The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to stress the need for drivers to remain vigilant, adhere to traffic laws, and exercise caution around large vehicles like tractor-trailers, which require more space and time to maneuver.
Investigators will release further details as the investigation progresses. These findings could provide critical insights into the cause of the crash and may inform future efforts to enhance road safety in the area. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of Jeffery Clifton, as officials work to uncover the events that led to this devastating accident.