CONWAY — Two Coastal Carolina University students were struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross S.C. Highway 544 early on August 16.
The incident occurred around 12:15 a.m. near the intersection of Highway 544 and Elvington Loop. A Honda Accord hit the students, who were crossing the busy road. According to the Conway Police Department, the driver, 17-year-old Mauricio Palafox-Correa, fled the scene but was later involved in another crash outside city limits. He faces charges of felony DUI and two counts of hit-and-run with great bodily injury.
Emergency services responded to the scene, and medical aid was provided to the injured individuals. Their current condition has not been released.
The timing of the collision coincided with Coastal Carolina University's move-in weekend, prompting renewed calls for increased safety measures along the highway. The S.C. Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has confirmed that a team will assess the corridor in the coming weeks to evaluate options for safety improvements.
“This is not uncommon in circumstances where a major incident has occurred,” said SCDOT spokeswoman Kelly Moore. “We will work closely with CCU and local officials to determine what additional improvements might be warranted.”
Historically, this section of Highway 544 has been dangerous for pedestrians. Since 2012, two Coastal students have died in this area, and many others have been injured. The highway separates the university from nearby student housing and establishments, leading to students frequently crossing at points without designated crosswalks.
A decade-long push for a pedestrian overpass has seen limited progress, with a proposal on hold since 2021 due to funding and planning challenges. Coastal Carolina University recently secured $10 million for a pedestrian overpass, and discussions with SCDOT are ongoing regarding the project and additional safety enhancements.