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West Columbia Man Arrested After Fatal Crash

News Summary

A tragic collision in Lexington County resulted in the deaths of two young women, prompting the arrest of Abel Ramirez Ortega. The 37-year-old faces multiple felony charges, including DUI resulting in death. The accident highlights growing concerns over traffic safety in South Carolina, with 291 fatalities reported this year alone. As the investigation continues, authorities emphasize the importance of responsible driving to prevent similar tragedies.

South Carolina – A West Columbia man was arrested on Monday following a tragic crash that resulted in the deaths of two young women in Lexington County. Abel Ramirez Ortega, 37, faces serious charges including two counts of felony DUI resulting in death, as well as driving without a license and driving under suspension.

The fatal accident took place on Sunday night around 9 p.m. at the intersection of Neely Wingard Road and Ben Franklin Road. Ortega was driving a 2019 Jeep Laredo when it collided with a 2004 Chevrolet Malibu. Claire Ann Pierce, a 22-year-old resident of Lexington, was a passenger in the Malibu and was pronounced dead at the scene. Another passenger, 21-year-old Eliza Jane Udy from Leesville, was transported to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash.

Initial reports indicate that the Jeep was heading east while the Chevrolet Malibu was traveling south at the time of the collision. Both the driver of the Malibu and Ortega escaped with non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to a hospital for treatment.

After receiving medical clearance, Ortega was taken into custody at the Lexington County Detention Center, where he was denied bond for all charges. The crash is an ongoing investigation involving both the South Carolina Highway Patrol and the Lexington County Coroner’s Office.

This incident highlights a growing concern regarding traffic safety in South Carolina. As of now, the state has recorded at least 291 traffic fatalities in 2025 alone, indicating a troubling trend. In 2024, reports showed that a total of 948 traffic-related deaths occurred statewide. Within Lexington County, 15 fatalities have been reported so far this year.

Ortega’s driving record raises further concerns about the incident. He has a history of driving offenses, which include a 2020 charge for driving without a license and operating a vehicle on a highway without proper registration. In 2023, he was also involved in a motor vehicle accident for which he was ordered to pay $1,800 in damages.

The severity of Ortega’s charges following the crash underscores the potential consequences of impaired driving. Families and communities continue to advocate for measures aimed at reducing DUI incidents and improving road safety as tragedies like this raise awareness about the dangers on the road.

As the investigation unfolds, officials urge all drivers to adhere to road regulations and prioritize safety to prevent further accidents. The loss of life is a reminder of the critical importance of responsible driving and the lasting impact of these incidents on families and communities.