Tragic Car Crash in Little River Claims One Life

News Summary

A deadly car crash in Little River, South Carolina, on January 18, 2025, involved two vehicles and resulted in the death of 43-year-old Heather Hairston. The driver of the GMC Acadia has been arrested on DUI charges. The community is mourning while authorities investigate the incident.

Tragic Car Crash in Little River Claims One Life

It’s a sad day in Little River, South Carolina, as the community grapples with the aftermath of a deadly car crash that occurred late Saturday night. The incident, which took place around 10:45 p.m. on January 18, 2025, has left one person dead and another injured, casting a shadow over this usually quiet area.

The Incident

The tragic accident involved two vehicles, a 2016 GMC Acadia and a 2016 Honda Accord, which collided near the intersection of U.S. 17 and Mica Avenue, about four miles north of North Myrtle Beach. Reports indicate that the GMC Acadia was heading north along U.S. 17 while the Honda Accord was traveling in the opposite direction.

Victim Identified

Authorities have identified the victim as Heather Hairston, a 43-year-old resident of Calabash, North Carolina. Sadly, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene of the accident. The news of her passing has struck a chord within the community, leaving friends and family heartbroken.

Injuries and Rescue Efforts

In addition to the loss of life, the crash resulted in one other person sustaining injuries. Horry County Fire Rescue crews sprang into action, working to extricate at least one individual from the wreckage. This kind of emergency response highlights both the seriousness of the situation and the challenges responders face in such dire circumstances.

Driver Arrested

In the wake of the accident, the driver of the GMC Acadia, Nicholas J. Kassis, a 60-year-old, has been arrested on charges of felony driving under the influence that resulted in death. As the investigation unfolds, Kassis is currently being held without bail at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center. The road ahead promises to be challenging, not only for the victims’ families but also for the legal proceedings that will follow.

Investigation Underway

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into this unfortunate incident, with valuable assistance from Horry County Police. They are working diligently to piece together the exact details of what led to this unfortunate crash. As of now, traffic was significantly affected in the area, causing delays for other drivers who may have been using U.S. 17 at the time of the accident.

Community Response

This tragic event serves as a reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and its potential consequences. Little River, known for its serene landscapes and friendly residents, is now forced to confront the harsh realities that accompany such a devastating incident. As the community comes together to support one another, thoughts and prayers are with Heather Hairston’s family during this heartbreaking time.

Looking Ahead

As this story develops, updates will be provided to keep the public informed about the ongoing investigation and any further developments regarding the driver’s legal situation. The Little River community is left in shock, but it remains strong, showing resilience in the face of tragedy.

Stay safe, everyone, and remember to look out for one another on the roads.

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