College Sweethearts Killed in South Carolina Lake Boat Crash Over Fourth of July Weekend
- Victor Nwoko
- Jul 9
- 2 min read
A tragic boating accident on Lake Greenwood during the Fourth of July weekend has claimed the lives of two Clemson University graduates and college sweethearts, Thomas Chandler Davis and Abby Katherine Davis, both 23.
The incident occurred around 1:42 a.m. on Sunday when a Yamaha boat, reportedly operating without proper navigation lights, collided with a smaller Alumacraft speedboat from behind. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) officers, who were already on the lake, witnessed the Yamaha speeding toward the Alumacraft but were unable to prevent the crash.
Thomas and Abby, who were aboard the Alumacraft, died at the scene from blunt force trauma, according to Laurens County Coroner Patti Canupp. Three other passengers were on the boat at the time. One person was thrown into the water but quickly rescued, while another was transported to the hospital and later released.
The driver of the Yamaha boat, Allen Sidney Benware Jr. III, was arrested at the scene and charged with two felony counts of boating under the influence (BUI) resulting in death. Authorities confirmed that the Alumacraft vessel had its navigation lights properly functioning at the time of the crash.
Benware was booked into Laurens County Jail and denied bond on Monday. If convicted, he faces a minimum of one year in prison and a $10,000 fine for each count of BUI causing death.
The devastating loss has left the Clemson community and the families of the young couple in mourning. Thomas Davis earned a degree in civil engineering and was remembered as a fitness enthusiast who loved the outdoors, hunting, and spending time on the lake. Abby Davis graduated with a degree in graphic communications and worked as a freelance social media marketer. Her obituary described her as adventurous, music-loving, and beloved by everyone she met.
Clemson University issued a statement expressing sorrow: “We are saddened to hear the news of these alumni who lost their lives far too soon. Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and loved ones impacted by this tragedy.”
The SCDNR emphasized the dangers of mixing alcohol with boating, stating, “This tragic event serves as a stark reminder that alcohol and water are a deadly combination. We continue to urge the public: always designate a sober skipper. Lives depend on it.”
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, alcohol remains the leading contributing factor in recreational boating fatalities. In 2024, 92 people nationwide died in alcohol-related boating accidents, accounting for 20% of all boating deaths.
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