Austin Royals Obituary, HAMPTON COUNTY, S.C. — Austin Royals, a 31-year-old man from Jacksonville, Florida, has died following a fatal motor vehicle collision on Interstate 95 in Hampton County, South Carolina, on Sunday night, September 20, 2026.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 10:41 p.m. on I-95 north near the 36.5-mile marker. Royals was driving a 2021 GMC pickup truck northbound when his vehicle struck the rear of a 1985 Western Star dump truck that was also traveling north.
The collision caused fatal injuries to Royals. Emergency responders were called to the scene and provided assistance, but he could not be saved. Hampton County Coroner Anna Fields later identified the deceased as 31-year-old Austin Royals of Jacksonville, Florida.
The driver of the dump truck was also injured in the crash and was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. No further information about that driver’s condition was provided in the information available.
Royals’ sudden death has left his family, friends and loved ones grieving the loss of a 31-year-old life. Those who knew him are now left to remember the years, relationships and memories they shared with him while coming to terms with his unexpected passing.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. Authorities have not released a final explanation for why the GMC pickup struck the dump truck, and the available information does not establish any additional cause or fault.
The crash also caused disruption along I-95 while emergency crews and investigators worked at the scene. Motorists were urged to exercise caution and expect delays as responders carried out their duties.
As Austin Royals’ loved ones mourn his passing, they are left to support one another and preserve the memories of a life that ended unexpectedly. Funeral and memorial arrangements had not been provided in the available information. Condolences go to Royals’ family, friends and everyone affected by his loss.
