Categories: Breaking NewsCrimeDisastersNews

Tragic Six-Vehicle Collision Claims Life in Bluffton

Emergency services at the six-vehicle collision scene in Bluffton.

News Summary

A six-vehicle collision on U.S. 278 in Bluffton resulted in the death of 43-year-old Juan Tahual-Lopez from Beaufort. The accident, which involved multiple vehicles, has raised safety concerns in the community. Emergency responders transported three others to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the incident, which temporarily closed eastbound lanes for several hours.

Bluffton, SC

Juan Tahual-Lopez, a 43-year-old man from Beaufort, has been identified as the victim in a tragic six-vehicle collision on U.S. 278 in Bluffton. The accident occurred on May 19, 2025, around 12:30 p.m., claiming Tahual-Lopez’s life after he was pronounced dead at the scene due to blunt force injuries.

The collision, which involved a total of six vehicles, began when a 2019 Ford pickup truck struck a 2015 Lexus sedan and a 2017 Toyota pickup truck. This initial impact caused the Ford to cross into oncoming traffic, where it collided head-on with a 2019 Nissan sedan and a 2006 Chevrolet pickup truck. Tahual-Lopez was driving the Chevrolet truck at the time of the accident and was the sole occupant of the vehicle.

Emergency responders transported three individuals to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries sustained in the collision. The accident necessitated the temporary closure of all eastbound lanes on U.S. 278 until approximately 5:15 p.m. as authorities worked to process the scene. Drivers were advised to use Buckwalter Parkway as an alternate route during the road closure.

Details of the Collision

The vehicles involved in the crash included:

Three westbound vehicles: a 2019 Ford pickup truck, a 2015 Lexus sedan, and a 2017 Toyota pickup truck.
Three eastbound vehicles: a 2019 Nissan sedan, a 2006 Chevrolet pickup truck (driven by Tahual-Lopez), and a 2024 Toyota van.

The impact of the collision was significant, resulting in the fatalities and injuries noted. A total of 10 occupants were involved in the six vehicles. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating the circumstances leading to the crash, looking into the precise factors that contributed to the events of that day.

Community Impact and Safety Concerns

Juan Tahual-Lopez was known as a dedicated father of four daughters and a pillar of strength for his family, committed to their well-being. The community has undoubtedly been shaken by this loss, as family and friends remember him for his generosity and dedication.

The incident underscores ongoing safety concerns on local roadways. In 2024, a total of 26 fatalities were reported on Beaufort County roadways, with contributing factors including drivers running off the road, exceeding the speed limit, and traveling on the wrong side of the street. This pattern raises alarms within the community regarding the need for improved driver awareness and adherence to traffic laws.

Emergency services, including firefighters from the Bluffton Township Fire District, responded promptly to the accident, providing medical treatment and assisting with the subsequent traffic control. Various public safety agencies collaborated during the incident, emphasizing the importance of driver vigilance, particularly when approaching intersections.

As the investigation continues, authorities are committed to uncovering additional details about the crash. The community is urged to remain informed and practice safe driving to prevent future tragedies on local roads.