A tragic two-vehicle crash on Saturday evening in Aiken County has claimed the life of motorcyclist Summer Poole of New Ellenton, according to the Aiken County Coroner’s Office.
Christopher Hogan, 55, of Aiken, was charged with felony driving under the influence – causing death, according to the jail website. He was being held Sunday without bond.
The collision occurred at approximately 6:09 p.m. at the intersection of Whiskey Road and Chukker Creek Road. Authorities say the 28-year-old victim was operating a 2003 Honda motorcycle heading southbound on Whiskey Road when a northbound Honda Civic turned into her path.
The impact proved fatal. Emergency personnel pronounced Poole deceased at the scene at 6:53 p.m. An autopsy is scheduled for next week in Newberry.
Poole frequently rode with her husband, Billy Poole. The couple married in 2021. As news of the accident spread, an outpouring of grief and support flooded social media.
“I can’t believe this. She was the sweetest person ever. RIP Summer Poole. My prayers are with you Billy Poole,” wrote Latoya Lester in a heartfelt Facebook post.
Deanett Moseley echoed the sorrow, writing, “I just can’t believe this… My heart breaks for her husband and family. People, please remember motorcycles—yes, we’re not all bad and we have families too. Look out for us.”
Holly Bates added, “Prayers for the family, actions need to be taken seriously when it comes to motorcyclists being hit and killed especially with all the people moving to the areas around.”
In response, Jamie Brogden, Summer Poole’s mother, shared, “Especially when they are drinking and driving and high. That was my daughter that was killed. As she was going straight at the light on her bike, the driver of the other car took a left turn and hit her, taking her life. The driver and his wife were both intoxicated in their vehicle. My daughter was only 28 years old.”
The Aiken Department of Public Safety and the Coroner’s Office continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
