News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Transportation has settled a $350,000 lawsuit stemming from the tragic drowning of 16-year-old Kolson Elliott, who died after a car crash in Spartanburg. Lack of guardrails was a contributing factor in the accident. The Elliott family has proactively campaigned for safety improvements in the area since the incident, highlighting the importance of road infrastructure in preventing similar tragedies.
Spartanburg, South Carolina – The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has settled a lawsuit for $350,000 following the tragic death of 16-year-old Kolson Elliott, which occurred on April 27, 2021. The brief court appearance on June 3, 2025, presided over by Judge Charles J. McCutchen, lasted less than ten minutes. The settlement acknowledges the SCDOT’s role in the incident, specifically related to missing guardrails on Drayton Road.
Kolson Elliott was driving home from basketball practice when his vehicle collided with an SUV that had pulled out in front of him. The force of the impact sent Kolson’s car down an embankment into Lawsons Fork Creek, where he tragically drowned. It is believed that proper guardrails could have prevented his vehicle from going over the edge, potentially leading to a different outcome.
Initially, authorities attributed the crash to Kolson’s speed, a determination that frustrated his family. However, a subsequent investigation revealed surveillance footage showing that the other vehicle’s unexpected maneuver directly contributed to the collision. This information led to a wrongful death settlement of $750,000 in 2022.
Since the event, Kolson’s family has been very active in advocating for safety improvements in the area. Following the previous settlement, they pressed the SCDOT to install guardrails on the bridge near where the accident occurred, citing it as being below safety standards. Notably, while on their way to participate in a fun run held in memory of Kolson, the family found that the SCDOT had finally installed the long-requested guardrails on the bridge.
Kevin Elliott, Kolson’s father, expressed that the desire for justice for his son has been paramount throughout this ordeal. While the financial settlements provide some relief, he emphasized that the family’s quest has never been about the monetary compensation but rather ensuring that others do not suffer the same fate due to inadequate infrastructure.
In South Carolina, the cap for damages awarded against government entities has remained unchanged at $300,000 since 1997, a restriction that was also a consideration during the legal process. The recent settlement and acknowledgment from SCDOT provide a sense of closure for the Elliott family.
Kolson, a student at Boiling Springs High School, was active in his community and enjoyed participating in various sports and activities with friends. His passing has left a lasting impact on both his family and the community, highlighting the importance of road safety and accountability in public infrastructure.
In summary, the settlement with SCDOT serves as both a recognition of the tragic events that unfolded and a step towards enhancing safety measures that may prevent similar incidents in the future. The Elliott family’s advocacy has played a crucial role in bringing attention to the need for guardrails in high-risk areas, making a significant contribution to local community safety.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: SCDOT Settlement
- Greenville Online: Guardrails Controversy
- WYFF4: Deadly Crash Report
- Google Search: Road Safety South Carolina
- Fox Carolina: Coroner Response to Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Guardrails
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg 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 Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
