PLR 25-065 – Automobile Mishap Claims One Soldier's Life

A 25-year-old Staff Sergeant assigned to Fort Eisenhower, Georgia, died in an automobile mishap 14 June 2025 near Lugoff, South Carolina, at 2145 local. The Soldier was driving in the wrong direction on a highway and collided with another vehicle. Additional information is currently unavailable.  

Since FY20, the Army has lost an average of 36 Soldiers a year to automobile mishaps. This mishap was the 23rd automobile fatality of FY25 and below the number of fatalities for this same time last year.

Safety Tips

Head-on motor vehicle collisions are deadly. In 2019, they were responsible for nearly 30% of the 16,700 U.S. roadway deaths that resulted from crashes with other vehicles, according to the National Safety Council. You can help prevent a potential head-on collision using these safety tips.

• Know Your Route: Before you start driving, use navigation apps or maps to familiarize yourself with the route, especially for unfamiliar areas.
• Double-Check Your Navigation: If you rely on navigation apps, double-check that the route displayed on your device matches the road signs. GPS devices can occasionally provide incorrect information, so always use them as a supplementary tool rather than as your sole source of guidance.
• Pay Attention to Road Signs: Look for and obey "Wrong Way" or "Do Not Enter" signs, which are designed to alert drivers to dangerous situations.
• Stay Focused: Avoid distractions like using your phone or other in-car distractions while driving. Distractions contribute significantly to driving errors. If unsure of your location or direction, safely pull over to assess your route.
• Use On-Ramps Correctly: Always use the designated on-ramp when entering an interstate. Carefully follow the directions indicated by all on-ramp signage.
• Be Mindful of One-Way Streets: Some cities have one-way streets leading to interstate entrances. Be aware of the traffic flow on these streets and follow the directional arrows. If you find yourself on a one-way street that doesn't align with your intended direction, look for alternative routes.
• Use Rest Areas and Service Plazas: If you're uncertain about your route, consider taking advantage of rest areas or service plazas. These areas often have maps and information about the surrounding highways. Take a moment to review your route and ask for assistance if needed.