News Summary
Akiem Johnson is calling for a thorough investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol into the fatal DUI crash that took his sister, Oshunda Tomoko Quillin’s life. The tragic incident occurred at the intersection of Firetower Road and Highway 76 in Florence. Johnson, while expressing his heartbreak, highlighted the importance of accounting for all vehicles involved and ensuring that witness testimonies are adequately reviewed. The family is advocating for justice and transparency following the devastating loss, as they navigate this painful time amidst previous family tragedies.
Florence Family Demands Thorough Investigation into Sister’s Fatal DUI Crash
Akiem Johnson is urging the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) to conduct a comprehensive investigation into new information surrounding the crash that claimed the life of his sister, Oshunda Tomoko Quillin. The tragic incident occurred on Friday evening at the intersection of Firetower Road and Highway 76 in Florence.
Quillin, 44, was a passenger in a vehicle involved in the accident. The driver of the vehicle is currently facing felony DUI charges related to the incident. Johnson expressed that the situation has been “heartbreaking,” and he remains in shock over the loss of his sister.
Witnesses have come forward, providing Johnson with tips regarding the crash. Some bystanders reported that they saw the accident unfold but were unable to speak with law enforcement officers on the scene. Additionally, these witnesses attempted to notify troopers of what they witnessed but feel their accounts were overlooked.
Johnson is encouraging the SCHP to take into account all vehicles involved in the incident during their investigation. He is clear in his intention of not assigning blame but rather ensuring a fair examination of the circumstances leading to the crash. His primary concern lies in understanding exactly what transpired during the fatal moments.
The death of Johnson’s sister comes in the wake of another family tragedy, as they recently lost their mother. Johnson articulated that this series of events has made coping with his sister’s death particularly difficult.
As of now, the SCHP has not publicly released the name of the driver who has been charged in the crash. The investigation into the incident continues as authorities gather evidence and witness statements. Johnson has also made inquiries to ABC 15 for potential coverage of the developments surrounding the case but has not yet received a response.
In pursuit of transparency, the SCHP has been requested to provide the incident and crash reports related to the accident. However, they have requested a 30-day extension before these documents will be made available.
The situation surrounding Quillin’s death highlights critical issues regarding DUI-related incidents and the responses from law enforcement. As the community grapples with the tragic loss, calls for thorough investigations into such events have gained attention. Family members and advocates stress the importance of ensuring that all evidence is thoroughly reviewed to prevent oversight and ensure accountability.
As this case develops, the focus remains on achieving clarity and justice for Oshunda Tomoko Quillin, as well as supporting her family during this difficult time. The outcomes of the SCHP’s investigations will be closely monitored by the family and the community alike, revealing gaps that may exist in protocols for responding to accident witnesses and evidence collection.
As this tragedy unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the vital importance of road safety and the critical need for responsible driving, especially regarding issues related to DUI offenses.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Crash in Florence County Claims Two Lives
Additional Resources
- WPDE: Florence Family Demands Investigation into Sister’s Fatal DUI Crash
- Denver Post: National Transportation Safety Board Report on Plane Crash Involving Florence Residents
- WAAY TV: ALEA Investigating Florence Crash Involving Off-Duty Officer
- Wikipedia: Driving Under the Influence
- Upper Michigan’s Source: 12-Year-Old Dies After Being Struck by Vehicle in Florence County
- Google Search: Florence Traffic Accidents
- Canon City Daily Record: Colorado State Patrol Investigating Fatal Accident
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
- Fox 11: Teen Driver Hits and Kills 12-Year-Old Boy in Florence County
- Google News: Florence Traffic Incidents
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
