A New Year’s Day ride turned deadly in Dorchester County after a 34-year-old man was killed in a collision involving a dirt bike and an SUV. The tragic crash happened along a busy stretch of Highway 78, leaving family members and friends mourning as the new year began with sorrow instead of celebration.
The Dorchester County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Matthew J. Dacus, 34, of Saint George. Dorchester County Coroner Paul Brouthers confirmed that Dacus was pronounced dead at the scene around 7:55 p.m. Thursday. News of his sudden death has shaken the Saint George community, where loved ones are remembering him as a life taken far too soon.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the crash occurred earlier in the evening at approximately 5:18 p.m. Master Trooper Hannah Davidson said Dacus was riding a Honda dirt bike eastbound on Highway 78 near Motel Drive. At the same time, a 2016 Ford Explorer was attempting to turn left from a private road to enter Highway 78 west.
Troopers said the SUV crossed into the path of the dirt bike, and the two vehicles collided. The impact caused catastrophic injuries to Dacus. Emergency crews were quickly dispatched to the scene, but despite their efforts, he could not be saved and later died from his injuries at the crash site.
Authorities have not released details about whether speed, lighting conditions, or visibility played a role in the collision. It is also unclear whether the dirt bike was street-legal or if Dacus was wearing protective safety gear at the time of the crash. Investigators are carefully reviewing the circumstances to determine exactly how and why the collision occurred.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash, and no charges have been announced at this time. Troopers are examining physical evidence, reviewing statements, and working to reconstruct the events leading up to the collision.
As Dorchester County grieves, officials are reminding drivers to remain alert when traveling on highways, especially when making turns across traffic. Motorcyclists and dirt bike riders are also urged to use proper safety equipment and stay visible. The tragic death of Matthew J. Dacus serves as a painful reminder of how quickly lives can be lost on the road, leaving families forever changed.
