OCONEE COUNTY, S.C. — A tragic hit-and-run crash in the early hours of Tuesday morning has claimed the life of a Westminster man, leaving the community shaken and authorities searching for answers. Officials say the incident happened while most residents were still asleep, adding to the shock and sadness surrounding the case.

The Oconee County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 63-year-old David Wayne Lay of Westminster. According to reports, Lay died from serious injuries he suffered after being struck by a vehicle in what authorities described as a pedestrian versus vehicle collision. His sudden death has left loved ones grieving and seeking justice.

The crash occurred at approximately 1:55 a.m. along the eastbound lanes of Highway 76/123, also known as Sandifer Boulevard, near Seed Farm Road, just outside the Westminster area. Authorities confirmed that the driver involved in the collision did not stop and instead fled the scene, turning the incident into a hit-and-run investigation.

Lay was later discovered by a deputy with the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office who was on routine patrol in the area. Investigators believe Lay had been walking toward Seneca at the time of the collision, though it is still unclear why he was on the roadway at that hour. The lack of witnesses and the driver’s escape have made the case more challenging.

Officials have confirmed that an autopsy will be conducted to further document the injuries Lay sustained. This examination is expected to provide more details that could help investigators better understand how the crash happened and possibly assist in identifying the vehicle involved.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is leading the ongoing investigation and is urging anyone with information to come forward. Authorities hope that tips from the public will help locate the driver responsible and bring some measure of justice to Lay’s family during this difficult time.