In Darlington County, South Carolina, a tragedy unfolded on a sunlit Friday morning, August 22, 2025, that has left a community grappling with grief. Charles Wayne Polson Jr., a beloved local, was riding his bicycle along East McIver Road near South Charleston Road when his life was cut short in a devastating hit-and-run. Around 11:15 a.m., as Polson pedaled westbound, a vehicle traveling in the same direction struck him with brutal force. The driver, in an act that has sparked outrage and sorrow, fled the scene, leaving Charles to succumb to his injuries on the roadside. The South Carolina Highway Patrol, led by Master Trooper Mitchell Ridgeway, is now spearheading a relentless search for the perpetrator of this heartbreaking crime.
Charles Wayne Polson Jr. was more than a name in a news report; he was a son, a father, a friend, and a vibrant thread in the fabric of Darlington County. Known for his love of cycling, he embraced the open road, finding freedom in the rhythm of the pedals. Yet, on this fateful day, that freedom was stolen by a driver who callously disregarded the sanctity of human life. Under South Carolina law, cyclists like Charles are afforded the same protections as any motorist, with the right to share the road safely. But the reality of hit-and-run accidents, like the one that claimed Charles’ life, underscores a grim truth: the roads can be perilous for those on two wheels.
Authorities are emphatic that drivers involved in collisions have a moral and legal duty to remain at the scene, render aid, and ensure the injured receive immediate medical attention. Fleeing, as this driver did, not only compounds the tragedy but also exposes them to severe legal consequences, including felony charges. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is working tirelessly, combing through evidence and appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the identification of the vehicle and driver responsible. The community, too, is rallying, urging anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward and help bring justice for Charles.
Candice Bond, a seasoned hit-and-run accident attorney, spoke passionately about the need for swift action in cases like this. “Time is the enemy when it comes to preserving evidence,” she said. “An independent investigation is critical to uncover the truth, establish negligence, and hold the responsible party accountable. From gathering witness statements to analyzing traffic camera footage, every detail matters in building a case that honors the victim and supports their loved ones.” Bond’s words resonate deeply in a community desperate for answers, where the loss of Charles has left an unfillable void.
For the family of Charles Wayne Polson Jr., the pain of his sudden departure is unimaginable. Beyond the emotional toll, they face the daunting prospect of navigating a complex legal landscape. Stefano Formica, a wrongful death attorney with Bond Legal, emphasized the importance of compassionate legal guidance during such a harrowing time. “A wrongful death claim can help families seek justice and financial relief for their loss—covering not just tangible costs but also the profound emotional suffering and loss of companionship,” Formica explained. “An experienced attorney can shoulder the burden of legal processes, allowing families to focus on healing and honoring their loved one’s memory.”
The tragedy of Charles’ death is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities cyclists face every day. Despite advancements in road safety, from designated bike lanes to enhanced vehicle technologies, accidents involving bicycles remain all too common in Darlington County. Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration paint a sobering picture, with traffic crashes—particularly those involving pedestrians and cyclists—remaining a persistent public safety issue. Charles’ story is not just a statistic; it’s a call to action for greater awareness, stricter enforcement, and a collective commitment to protecting those who share our roads.
As Darlington County mourns, the memory of Charles Wayne Polson Jr. burns brightly in the hearts of those who knew him. His love for cycling, his warmth, and his place in the community will not be forgotten. Vigils have sprung up across the county, with neighbors and friends gathering to share stories, light candles, and demand justice. The road where Charles took his final ride, near East McIver and South Charleston, now stands as a somber reminder of both loss and resilience—a place where a community vows to honor a life taken too soon.
The investigation continues, with the South Carolina Highway Patrol urging anyone with information to contact them. For now, Darlington County holds its breath, hoping for closure and clinging to the legacy of a man whose spirit will forever ride on in the hearts of those he touched.