Arrest made after SC State University student and graduate killed in car accident
ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WIS) - One student and a recent South Carolina State University graduate died in a car accident Friday morning, according to a statement released by South Carolina State University.
Orangeburg County Sheriff Leroy Ravenell says an investigation has begun after the collision occurred around 1 a.m.
Ravenell says a vehicle being pursued by the S.C. Highway Patrol collided with another vehicle on Highway 33, and according to him, no law enforcement vehicles were involved.
A S.C. Department of Public Safety trooper saw a 2015 Hyundai Sonata traveling at a high rate of speed in Orangeburg County, and attempted a traffic stop, but the suspect failed to stop.
The driver of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata, Fuquan Mekhi C Hills, 23, has been charged with 2 counts of failure to stop for blue lights resulting in death, 1 count of failure to stop for blue lights resulting in great bodily injury, 2 counts of felony DUI involving death, 1 count felony DUI with great bodily injury, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, unlawful possession of a firearm and open container.
Zeleria Simpson and Shemyia Riliey were pronounced dead after the accident, according to South Carolina State University.
“Our hearts break for the families of the beautiful souls we’ve lost,” SC State Interim President Alexander Conyers said.
Simpson graduated in May 2021 with a degree in criminal justice and law enforcement, and served as a guard for the Bulldogs women’s basketball team.
Riley was a junior majoring in social work, and a Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College Scholar.
“There are no words that will dull the pain currently being experienced by their immediate families,” Conyers said.
Three other students were hospitalized with injuries from the accident.
Charges are pending against Hyundai suspect driver at this time.
The sheriff said that due to state law involving agencies who work the same area, the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office has asked the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department to conduct the ongoing investigation.
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