Bluffton, SC (May 20, 2025) — Bluffton Township Fire District responded to a significant collision involving six vehicles at the intersection of Highway 278 (Fording Island Road) and Whiteoaks Circle/Rose Hill Way shortly after 12:30 PM on Monday, May 19.
Initial reports of multiple vehicles and possible entrapment prompted responding fire crews to request additional resources while en route. Upon arrival, firefighters found a complex scene involving multiple heavily damaged vehicles blocking the intersection and several lanes of travel. Fire district personnel provided initial medical treatment to three individuals before transferring their care to Beaufort County EMS. Other individuals, involved in the collision, declined treatment or did not require medical attention.
Firefighters worked quickly to free individuals who were trapped inside their vehicles and remained on scene for several hours to support traffic control, assist law enforcement with scene safety, and help with vehicle removal.
“This was a difficult incident for everyone involved,” said Deputy Chief Adam Corn, who oversaw operations on scene. “Our crews, along with our partners in EMS and law enforcement, responded with care, coordination, and professionalism under very difficult circumstances. We’re grateful for the strong relationships among our public safety teams, and we extend our deepest sympathies to all those affected.”
Multiple agencies—including the Bluffton Police Department, Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, South Carolina Highway Patrol, South Carolina State Transport Police, and Beaufort County EMS—provided critical support throughout the incident.
With the summer travel season underway, the Fire District urges all drivers to stay alert, obey speed limits, and approach intersections with caution. Avoiding distractions behind the wheel is essential to keeping everyone on the road safe.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is leading the ongoing investigation into the cause of the collision.