On the night of June 15, 2025, a tragic crash occurred on I‑385 Southbound at exit 37 in Greenville County. According to authorities, 58-year-old David Mather Whitehead Sr., a dump truck driver from North Carolina, was struck by an SUV while exiting the highway around 11:30 PM. He was transported to the hospital but died from his injuries shortly after midnight.
The driver of the other vehicle, Joan Esteban Velez, 32, was arrested at the scene. Law enforcement determined he was impaired at the time of the crash. He now faces the following charges:
Felony DUI resulting in death
Felony DUI resulting in great bodily injury
Open container violation
These charges confirm the belief by law enforcement that intoxication was the direct cause of this fatal incident.
Driving under the influence in South Carolina is treated with extreme seriousness, especially when it leads to injury or death. In this case:
Felony DUI resulting in death is punishable by 1 to 25 years in prison, plus mandatory license revocation and significant fines.
Felony DUI resulting in great bodily injury also carries prison time ranging from 30 days to 15 years.
The open container charge, while lesser, contributes to the total liability.
Beyond the criminal case, the victim’s family may pursue civil claims for:
Medical and funeral expenses
Loss of future income and support
Emotional pain and suffering
If the defendant is convicted, this strengthens the family’s position in seeking full compensation through civil litigation.
This was not a random accident. It was preventable.
The crash occurred because someone made the reckless choice to drive while impaired. In situations like this, prevention begins with personal responsibility and public awareness.
Do not drive if you’ve consumed alcohol or drugs — even a “few drinks” can impair reaction time.
South Carolina law imposes harsh penalties for DUI with injury or death, including long prison terms.
Call a ride, use a taxi, or designate a sober driver — someone’s life depends on it.
If you see someone attempting to drive impaired, intervene — you could save a life.
If your loved one was killed or seriously injured in a DUI crash, you are not alone. You have the legal right to seek justice through both criminal and civil channels.
Our South Carolina personal injury and wrongful death attorneys understand the emotional and financial impact a tragedy like this can cause. We will walk you through your legal options and fight for accountability.
Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and reflects public reports as of June 16, 2025. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided. It is not intended as legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our qualified attorneys.
Make a free call to talk directly with an attorney. Learn about the merits of your case, and never pay a cent until you recover the compensation you deserve.
Thomas Spiro Conits Esq. is your personal injury attorney in South Carolina. Call today.
100 Williams St,
Greenville, SC 29601,
United States
© 2025 Spartan Law. All Rights Reserved.
We specialize in personal injury cases across South Carolina. Get a free consultation and see if you qualify—no fees unless we win!
