Driver charged in fatal downtown Charleston crash

78-year-old pedestrian killed at busy intersection

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:28pm

An extreme close-up of a shattered traffic signal light lens, reflecting a single harsh flash of light, conceptually representing the aftermath of a fatal pedestrian crash.The aftermath of a fatal crash that claimed the life of a 78-year-old pedestrian has renewed calls for improved safety measures at busy downtown intersections.

A driver has been charged with failure to yield the right-of-way after a crash that left a 78-year-old woman dead in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. Annelise Simmons was struck by a pickup truck while crossing in a designated crosswalk on Thursday morning.

Why it matters

The intersection where the fatal accident occurred is known for heavy foot traffic from both locals and tourists, raising concerns about pedestrian safety in the area. The incident has prompted renewed calls from community advocates for the city to prioritize measures to protect vulnerable road users.

The details

Police said Simmons was crossing Broad Street at King Street around 8:30 a.m. on Thursday when she was hit by a pickup truck. She was transported to the hospital but later pronounced deceased. The driver, who has not been publicly identified, was charged with failure to yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian on a green light.

  • The crash occurred around 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 31, 2026.
  • Simmons was pronounced dead at the hospital later that day.

The players

Annelise Simmons

A 78-year-old pedestrian who was killed in the crash.

Charleston Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that charged the driver with failure to yield.

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What they’re saying

“We are committed to making our streets safer for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists.”

— City of Charleston, Statement

What’s next

The Charleston Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident, and the driver may face additional charges.

The takeaway

This tragic accident highlights the need for improved pedestrian safety measures in high-traffic areas of Charleston, especially at busy intersections where drivers and walkers must share the road.