WALTERBORO, S.C. – An adult female sustained serious injuries when her single-engine plane crashed into a pond on private property in the 5000 block of Wiggins Road on January 2, 2024. The Piper aircraft had departed from Beaufort and experienced mechanical issues shortly after takeoff, prompting the pilot to attempt a return to the airport. The crash occurred in a remote rural area, and the plane was not visible from the road. The property owner heard the plane hit trees and crash into the pond, and he immediately rushed to assist the unconscious woman, who was the only occupant of the plane. The woman had suffered multiple injuries, and the plane was partially submerged in the pond, with one wing torn off. Emergency responders and the CARE Flight Medical helicopter provided critical assistance, and the injured woman was transported to the Trauma Center at MUSC.
The incident drew a great response from various agencies, including CARE Flight, Colleton County Sheriff’s Office, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The coordinated efforts of these organizations and the assistance of bystanders were instrumental in providing advanced medical care and transporting the injured pilot to the hospital. The community rallied together to support the response efforts, demonstrating the collective strength and resilience of the village. For further information, individuals are encouraged to visit colletonfire.com.
In summary, a single-engine plane crashed into a pond on private property in Walterboro, South Carolina, resulting in serious injuries to the female pilot. The incident prompted a swift and coordinated response from emergency personnel and various agencies, underscoring the importance of community support and collaboration in times of crisis.