Family of Four from Walterboro Involved in Automobile Accident on Their Way to Charleston Vacation
A family of four from Walterboro was tragically involved in a devastating automobile accident early Saturday morning while en route to what was meant to be a joyful vacation in Charleston. The accident occurred along U.S. Highway 17-A near Jacksonboro, just 40 minutes into their trip.
Authorities say the family, consisting of Michael and Lauren Jenkins, both in their late 30s, and their two children—8-year-old Ella and 5-year-old Mason—were traveling in a gray Honda CR-V when their vehicle was struck head-on by a pickup truck that had crossed over into the opposite lane. The driver of the truck, a 27-year-old man from Summerville, is believed to have been under the influence at the time of the crash. He sustained minor injuries and is currently in custody pending further investigation.
First responders arrived on the scene shortly after 6:30 a.m. Sadly, Lauren Jenkins and young Mason were pronounced dead at the scene. Michael and Ella were airlifted to MUSC in Charleston with critical injuries. As of this morning, both remain in intensive care. Their conditions are being closely monitored, and hospital officials have stated the next 48 hours will be crucial.
Family friends and community members in Walterboro have been left in shock and mourning. “They were just a beautiful, loving family. Always smiling, always involved,” said family friend Jessica Holmes, who attended church with the Jenkinses. “It breaks my heart to even think about this.”
Local law enforcement officials have confirmed that the South Carolina Highway Patrol’s MAIT (Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team) is leading the investigation. Charges against the other driver are expected to be upgraded pending toxicology results.
A GoFundMe page has been created by relatives to support funeral arrangements and medical expenses. As of this afternoon, over $15,000 has been raised in just a few hours, reflecting the outpouring of love and support from the community.
This tragedy serves as a grim reminder of how quickly life can change. A weekend of fun turned into heartbreak in an instant—for a family, a community, and all who knew the Jenkinses.
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