SUMTER COUNTY, S.C. — Authorities have identified the motorcyclist who was tragically killed in a collision near Shaw Air Force Base on Thursday, July 3, 2025. The South Carolina Highway Patrol confirmed the victim as 31-year-old Robert Clark of Sumter County.

The fatal crash occurred around 3:25 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. Highway 378 (Broad Street) and Loring Mill Road, a heavily trafficked area just outside Shaw Air Force Base. According to Master Trooper Brandon Bolt, a 2020 Ford SUV was traveling northbound on Loring Mill Road and was attempting to cross the intersection to continue on Broad Street.

As the SUV entered the roadway, it was struck on the side by a 2024 Yamaha motorcycle traveling eastbound on Broad Street. The impact of the collision was devastating.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene to find the motorcyclist, Robert Clark, gravely injured. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Two of the four passengers inside the SUV were also injured in the crash and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Their conditions have not yet been released.

The Sumter County Coroner, Robert Baker, later confirmed Clark’s identity and stated that an autopsy is scheduled to take place at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston next week to determine the exact cause of death.

The loss of Robert Clark has deeply saddened the Sumter community. Friends and family describe him as a passionate motorcycle enthusiast and a kind-hearted individual who enjoyed life and loved his hometown. His sudden passing has left a void that will be felt for years to come.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash to determine whether speed, visibility, or other factors may have contributed to the tragic accident. No charges have been filed at this time.

Authorities are reminding motorists to exercise caution at all intersections, especially during high-traffic hours, and to remain vigilant for motorcycles, which are more difficult to see and more vulnerable during collisions.

As the investigation continues, the Sumter community mourns the loss of a young man taken far too soon. Funeral arrangements for Robert Clark are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.