News Summary
Over a span of just four days, four individuals lost their lives in motorcycle accidents in Horry County, South Carolina. The incidents coincided with the annual bike rally and highlight the risks motorcyclists face. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding these fatal crashes, including one involving excessive speed and alcohol use. Local officials stress the importance of road safety, especially during large motorcycle events. Meanwhile, the community mourns these tragic losses, reminding all riders to prioritize safety.
Horry County, South Carolina – Four people lost their lives in motorcycle crashes in Horry County over the past four days, coinciding with the conclusion of the 86th annual bike rally, which took place from May 9 to May 18, 2025. The series of tragic incidents highlights the dangers motorcyclists may face during such events.
Fatal Incidents Overview
The first motorcycle crash occurred around 12:15 a.m. on May 16 in the vicinity of Todd Boulevard and Lesia Lane, close to Conway. The victim, identified as 51-year-old Michael Davis from the Conway area, was riding a 1999 Harley-Davidson when he swerved to avoid an animal. Unfortunately, the maneuver led to him losing control and spilling onto the roadway. Despite being transported to Grand Strand Medical Center, Davis succumbed to his injuries.
The second fatal incident took place in the early hours of May 18. Around 2 a.m., a motorcycle carrying 40-year-old Jessica Woodall from Laurinburg, North Carolina, crashed into a concrete median while exiting onto Sea Mountain Highway. Woodall died at the scene due to blunt force trauma. Witnesses claimed that the motorcycle’s driver displayed signs of excessive drinking and possibly consumed Xanax prior to the crash. A bottle of vodka, which still contained liquor, was discovered at the site of the accident. Reports indicate the motorcycle was traveling at speeds exceeding 100 mph and skidded 74 feet before colliding with the median. The driver, who sustained serious injuries, was hospitalized, preventing any sobriety tests or breath samples from being taken at the scene. The North Myrtle Beach Police Department is currently conducting an investigation into this incident.
Additional Fatalities
Two more fatalities were reported in a crash early on May 19, around 12:15 a.m., in Carolina Forest. This accident occurred on Towne Centre Parkway near Breakers Drive, approximately three miles west of Myrtle Beach. Preliminary reports suggest that a 2004 Honda motorcycle veered off the road, struck a curb and then a utility box, before falling onto the roadway. The identities of the two individuals killed in this incident have yet to be disclosed.
Authorities’ Response
The S.C. Highway Patrol is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incidents involving Michael Davis, while the North Myrtle Beach Police Department is conducting investigations into both the crash involving Jessica Woodall and the two fatalities reported on May 19. As of now, no charges have been filed in connection with the incidents.
Background on Motorcycle Safety
Motorcycle rallies are events that bring together motorcycle enthusiasts to celebrate their passion for biking, often resulting in an increased number of riders on the road. While these gatherings foster a sense of community and enjoyment, they can also lead to accidents, particularly if riders engage in risky behavior such as speeding or driving under the influence. State officials and law enforcement encourage all motorcyclists to prioritize safety and adhere to traffic regulations to help prevent accidents and fatalities.
As the investigations continue, local authorities and communities reflect on the importance of motorcycle safety, especially during events that attract larger crowds of riders. The recent crashes serve as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers on the road.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Horry County Officer Injured in Motorcycle Crash
Columbia Community Grieves Loss of Student in Hit-and-Run
Tragic Crashes Near North Myrtle Beach Spark Road Closures
Columbia Faces Traffic Safety Dilemmas Following Recent Hit-and-Run Incidents
Tragic Accident Claims Life of USC Student
Tragedy Strikes University of South Carolina: Student Killed in Hit-and-Run
Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Woman Dies in North Myrtle Beach Motorcycle Crash
- Wikipedia: Motorcycle Safety
- Myrtle Beach Online: Local News Article
- Google Search: Motorcycle Safety Statistics
- WBTW: Motorcycle Passenger Dies in North Myrtle Beach Crash
- Google Scholar: Motorcycle Accidents Safety
- MyFox8: North Carolina Woman Killed in Motorcycle Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: North Myrtle Beach
- My Horry News: Motorcycle Passenger Dies in Crash
- Google News: Motorcycle Crash North Myrtle Beach
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
