Coroner: Florence County paramedic, motorcyclist killed after car drives through crash scene

FLORENCE COUNTY, S.C. (WMBF) – Authorities confirmed that two people, including a paramedic, were killed during a crash investigation in Florence County late Tuesday.

The Florence County Emergency Medical Services said paramedics, law enforcement and firefighters were investigating a crash on Pamplico Highway in Florence.

While they were on the scene and caring for the victims of the crash, a car that was not involved in the first wreck drove through the scene and hit at least four people, EMS said. Florence County Coroner Keith von Lutcken said the vehicle crossed the median and was driving through the scene at a high rate of speed.

The Florence County Sheriff’s Office later stated the vehicle was traveling north on Pamplico Highway before crossing the median into southbound lanes, which is where the first accident occurred.

Florence County Sheriff TJ Joye confirmed a paramedic, Florence police officer and state trooper were hit. Deputies later said the vehicle then came to a stop not far from where the crash happened when it struck another vehicle.

Florence County EMS said it lost one of its paramedics in the crash, who Von Lutcken later identified as 32-year-old Sara Weaver.

The coroner also said that 37-year-old Cedric Gregg of Florence, who was driving a motorcycle, died at the scene.

“We are heartbroken and overwhelmed by grief as we announce that two people died following this incident, including one of our paramedics,” Florence County EMS posted. “We ask for prayers for everyone involved.”

Florence County Emergency Management said that Weaver was a dedicated employee and vital member of the community.

“Her smile lit up every room, she had a heart of gold and a kind soul that could not be matched,” the agency posted on Facebook. “We are overcome with grief and sadness.”

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Darlington County EMS sent out its condolences after the deadly crash.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out tonight to all Florence County First Responders and their families. We are here for you, our brothers and sisters. God Bless and give you comfort,” the agency posted on Facebook.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety said the state trooper involved in the crash was released from the hospital with non-life threatening injuries on Wednesday. The Florence police officer involved was also taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, per the sheriff’s office.

Weaver’s family and friends stopped by her EMS station where her car was still parked and laid flowers along with an American flag on the hood.

“She was very compassionate, engaged and you had no doubt she was doing what she was meant to do,” said Maj. Kate Smith with Florence County EMS.

Brandon Matthews said his family was planning a get-together with Weaver and her family to catch up on life.

He said he was heartbroken by the news but said Weaver is one you’ll never forget.

“She was a shining light,” said Matthews.

Deputies also requested assistance from the Myrtle Beach Police Department’s Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team to help investigate the incident.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Florence County Sheriff’s Office at 843-665-2121.

Stay with WMBF News for updates.

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