South Carolina State Representative Wendell Gilliard was involved in a serious car accident on Interstate 26 on the afternoon of Wednesday, May 28, 2025. The incident occurred near Exit 77, and emergency responders were quickly on the scene to provide aid.
According to initial reports, Rep. Gilliard was transported to a nearby hospital shortly after the crash. His office later confirmed that he is in stable condition and undergoing further evaluation. Details about the cause of the crash or whether other vehicles were involved remain under investigation by local authorities.
Emergency Response and Location
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) reported that the crash caused significant delays on I-26 in the westbound lanes, with traffic being rerouted through surrounding local roads for over an hour. First responders from Lexington County and state highway patrol were dispatched quickly, ensuring the area was secured and that injured parties received medical assistance promptly.
The location of the incident, Exit 77 on I-26, is known to be a high-traffic zone, particularly during weekday afternoons. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether poor road conditions, weather, or other drivers were contributing factors in the crash.
For real-time updates on road incidents and safety alerts, residents can visit the South Carolina Department of Public Safety: scdps.sc.gov
Gilliard’s Condition and Past Incidents
Rep. Gilliard’s staff issued a public statement Wednesday evening assuring constituents that he is in stable condition and receiving care. “The Representative is alert and responsive. We appreciate the outpouring of support from the community and ask for continued prayers,” the statement read.
This is not the first time Gilliard has experienced a vehicular accident. In March 2024, he was previously injured in a separate crash also in Lexington County. That incident, while less severe, prompted increased awareness around traffic safety for public officials and renewed calls for infrastructure improvements in busy corridors like I-26.
Gilliard, who has served in the South Carolina House of Representatives since 2009, represents Charleston and has been a strong advocate for workers’ rights, education, and community health. His presence in legislative matters has been significant, and news of the accident has prompted widespread support from colleagues across the state.
Statements from the Community and Lawmakers
Public figures and local citizens have expressed concern and solidarity with Gilliard’s family following news of the crash. Several members of the state legislature posted messages of encouragement and support on social media, with many praising his dedication and resilience.
“Praying for my colleague and friend Rep. Gilliard. We are all hoping for a speedy recovery,” one fellow lawmaker tweeted Wednesday evening.
Charleston-area residents also responded online, calling him a “pillar of the community” and praising his years of public service. Many hoped for transparency in the investigation to ensure accountability and improve traffic safety measures statewide.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the crash. As of Thursday morning, no citations or charges have been issued, and officials have yet to confirm if any other drivers were involved. South Carolina Highway Patrol is leading the investigation and is expected to release additional findings later this week.
Motorists traveling through I-26 were advised to expect delays and to drive cautiously. Traffic in the area had returned to normal by Wednesday night, but local agencies stressed the importance of attentive driving, especially in high-traffic areas.
To track updates or file traffic incident reports, citizens can visit the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT): www.scdot.org
Public Safety and Legislative Concerns
This incident has renewed discussions among lawmakers about road safety in South Carolina, especially for high-risk zones like major interstates. With recent increases in traffic-related injuries across the state, some legislators are expected to revisit infrastructure improvement proposals in upcoming sessions.
Gilliard himself has previously supported legislation related to pedestrian and road safety, and many are watching closely to see how this personal experience may shape future policy discussions.
