The community of Horry County is grieving after a tragic collision claimed the life of 72-year-old Gregory Weitl of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Weitl was fatally struck by a vehicle Wednesday night while attempting to cross Highway 707 near Hidden Woods Drive in the Socastee area, a stretch of roadway known for steady traffic and limited visibility after dark.
According to officials, Weitl was crossing the busy highway when an oncoming pickup truck hit him. Emergency crews arrived quickly and worked to save him, but the injuries he sustained were too severe. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released the name of the pickup’s driver, and the investigation into the circumstances of the deadly crash remains ongoing.
The collision occurred after nightfall, a time when drivers often face reduced visibility along that portion of Highway 707. Investigators are now reviewing several factors that may have contributed to the tragedy, including the level of lighting along the roadway, Weitl’s exact location at the time of impact, and whether any driver-related or environmental conditions played a role. Officers are also examining witness accounts and potential surveillance footage to piece together a clear timeline of events.
Family members, friends, and those in the Socastee community remember Gregory Weitl as a warm and respected man whose life ended far too soon. Whether visiting or spending time in the area, he left a lasting impression on those who knew him. His sudden passing has sparked an outpouring of sympathy and sorrow from both local residents and those connected to him in Indiana.
Following the crash, a section of Highway 707 was temporarily shut down to allow investigators and first responders to work safely at the scene. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone who may have witnessed the collision or was driving in the area at the time to come forward with information that could assist in the investigation.
The heartbreaking loss of Gregory Weitl underscores the dangers pedestrians face on busy roadways and serves as a reminder for both drivers and walkers to remain vigilant, especially during nighttime hours. As investigators continue to gather details, the community is left mourning a life taken too soon and reflecting on the importance of safety on the roads they share.
