CHARLESTON — A man charged in a fatal high-speed crash in Mount Pleasant last year will remain in custody as his prosecution proceeds.
Keenan Coakley, 33, is charged with reckless homicide stemming from the April 13, 2024, incident that resulted in the death of 20-year-old Alana LaShae Conyers. On October 14, Circuit Judge Debra McCaslin denied Coakley's request for bond, thus maintaining his detention at Charleston County Jail.
The collision occurred at approximately 5 a.m. on Billy Swails Boulevard near Ames Way. Both Coakley and Conyers were reportedly speeding, exceeding 35 mph, and operating their vehicles in a reckless manner. Coakley's vehicle drifted into the median and collided with Conyers' car, which subsequently crashed into a tree. Emergency responders found both vehicles overturned.
Coakley's attorney, Alan Toporek, noted that Conyers was driving with several underage women who had been consuming alcohol. Reports indicate Conyers had a blood alcohol content of approximately 0.26 at the time of her death. There was no information available on whether Coakley was tested for alcohol.
Following the incident, Coakley remained at the scene. Assistant Solicitor Timmy Finch stated that the condition of the victims did not alter the facts surrounding the collision and emphasized that Coakley was responsible.
Coakley was previously arrested on May 25, 2024, and released the following day on a $100,000 surety bond. However, he faces additional charges in Oconee County related to an incident where a police officer was reportedly dragged. Following this arrest, Coakley's bond in the Charleston case was revoked.