A devastating head-on collision on College Park Road in Berkeley County, South Carolina, has claimed the lives of two Summerville residents, Danielle Huger, 46, and Jesus Carreno, 32. The tragic accident occurred on Saturday night, January 13, 2025, shortly before 9 p.m., leaving the Summerville community in shock and mourning.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP), the collision involved a Dodge SUV traveling west and a Dodge truck traveling east. Huger, the sole occupant of the SUV, was pronounced dead at the scene, while Carreno, the driver of the truck, succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to a local hospital.
As the investigation unfolds, friends, family, and community members grapple with the heartbreaking loss of two lives in what authorities have described as a devastating yet avoidable accident.
The Incident
Sequence of Events
The fatal crash occurred on College Park Road, a busy stretch connecting Summerville and other parts of Berkeley County. At approximately 8:50 p.m., Danielle Huger was driving her Dodge SUV westbound when, for reasons still under investigation, her vehicle crossed the centerline and collided head-on with Jesus Carreno’s Dodge truck traveling eastbound.
The collision caused extensive damage to both vehicles, scattering debris across the roadway and prompting an immediate response from emergency services.
Emergency Response
First responders, including Berkeley County EMS and firefighters, arrived on the scene within minutes of the 911 call. Efforts to extricate the victims were hampered by the severity of the crash.
- Danielle Huger was pronounced dead at the scene by the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office.
- Jesus Carreno, critically injured, was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries later that night.
“This was one of the most severe crashes we’ve seen on this stretch of road,” said Berkeley County Fire Chief Mark Wilson. “Our hearts go out to the families affected by this tragedy.”
Victims Remembered
Danielle Huger: A Pillar of Strength and Kindness
Danielle Huger, 46, was a lifelong resident of Summerville and a beloved member of the community. Known for her warm personality and dedication to her family, Danielle was the mother of two adult children and a grandmother of one.
“She was the glue that held our family together,” said her daughter, Monique Huger. “Her love and kindness were unmatched. We can’t imagine life without her.”
Danielle worked as a nurse at a local hospital, where colleagues described her as compassionate and hardworking.
“Danielle was a light in our hospital,” said her supervisor, Dr. Lisa Carter. “She cared deeply for her patients and treated everyone with respect and empathy.”
Jesus Carreno: A Man of Determination and Heart
Jesus Carreno, 32, was equally cherished in the Summerville community. Originally from Mexico, Jesus had lived in Summerville for the past decade, where he worked as a skilled carpenter and volunteered with local youth programs.
“He had a heart of gold,” said his best friend, Carlos Mendoza. “Jesus was always there for others, whether it was fixing something for a neighbor or mentoring kids at the community center.”
Carreno’s family described him as a dedicated father to his 5-year-old son, Mateo, who was his pride and joy.
“Jesus lived for his son,” said his sister, Maria Carreno. “Everything he did was for Mateo. He was the best father anyone could ask for.”
Community Reaction
Shock and Grief
The Summerville community has been left reeling from the loss of two cherished residents. Friends, neighbors, and colleagues have expressed their condolences and shared memories of Danielle and Jesus, highlighting their kindness, hard work, and dedication to their families and community.
“This is a tragedy that has shaken all of us,” said Summerville Mayor Richard Turner. “Danielle and Jesus were beloved members of our town, and their loss is deeply felt by everyone who knew them.”
Support Efforts
In the wake of the tragedy, local organizations and community members have rallied to support the victims’ families. Vigils have been planned, and fundraisers are underway to assist with funeral expenses and provide financial support to their loved ones.
“We want to ensure that the families of Danielle and Jesus know they are not alone,” said community leader Angela Porter. “We are here for them during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Investigation
Preliminary Findings
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the crash, with assistance from Berkeley County authorities. Early reports suggest that Huger’s Dodge SUV may have crossed the centerline, causing the head-on collision.
“We are still in the process of gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses,” said SCHP spokesperson Lt. James Porter. “At this time, we are working to determine the exact sequence of events and any potential contributing factors.”
Contributing Factors
While the investigation remains ongoing, authorities are examining several potential factors, including:
- Weather Conditions: There were no reports of adverse weather at the time of the crash.
- Speed: Investigators are analyzing the speed of both vehicles at the time of impact.
- Driver Impairment: Toxicology reports for both drivers are pending.
- Mechanical Failure: Both vehicles are undergoing inspections to rule out mechanical issues.
Road Safety Concerns
Dangerous Stretch of Road
College Park Road has been the site of multiple accidents in recent years, prompting calls for increased safety measures. Residents have voiced concerns about speeding, poor lighting, and the need for additional traffic enforcement.
“This road has seen too many tragedies,” said local resident Sarah Jenkins. “We need better safety measures to prevent more lives from being lost.”
Calls for Action
In response to the crash, local officials have pledged to review traffic patterns and implement improvements, such as additional signage, speed enforcement, and road repairs.
“Our priority is ensuring the safety of everyone who travels on College Park Road,” said Berkeley County Councilman David Harris. “We will take every step necessary to address these concerns.”
Community Tributes
Candlelight Vigil
A candlelight vigil will be held at the Summerville Community Center on Tuesday evening to honor Danielle Huger and Jesus Carreno. The event, organized by friends and family, will feature prayers, music, and reflections on their lives and legacies.
“This is a time for us to come together and support one another,” said vigil organizer Monica Turner. “Danielle and Jesus touched so many lives, and this is our way of remembering them.”
Memorial Fundraisers
GoFundMe campaigns have been launched to assist the Huger and Carreno families with funeral expenses and provide ongoing support for their loved ones.
“Every little bit helps,” said campaign organizer Kevin Miller. “These families are going through an unimaginable loss, and we want to ease their burden as much as possible.”
Moving Forward
Healing as a Community
As the Summerville community mourns the loss of Danielle and Jesus, efforts are underway to promote healing and resilience. Local counselors and grief support groups have opened their doors to those affected by the tragedy, offering resources and a safe space to process their emotions.
“This is a time of grief, but also a time to lean on each other,” said grief counselor Dr. Linda Carter. “Together, we can navigate this loss and honor the lives of those we’ve lost.”
Advocating for Change
In the aftermath of the crash, advocates are calling for broader measures to improve road safety and prevent future tragedies. Community leaders are urging residents to participate in discussions and initiatives aimed at making College Park Road safer for everyone.
“This isn’t just about one accident,” said Mayor Turner. “It’s about creating a safer community for all of us.”
Conclusion
The heartbreaking collision on College Park Road has left a profound impact on the Summerville community. As family, friends, and neighbors come together to mourn the loss of Danielle Huger and Jesus Carreno, they are also united in their commitment to honoring their memories and advocating for positive change.
Through vigils, memorials, and community action, the legacies of Danielle and Jesus will continue to inspire love, kindness, and resilience in the Summerville community. Further updates on the investigation and safety initiatives will be shared as they become available.
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