Chapin, South Carolina, September 18, 2025
News Summary
Defensive line coach Travian Robertson and his wife Kettiany have filed a lawsuit against the estate of Kelly Marie Johnson, whose alleged intoxicated driving led to a serious head-on collision. Robertson suffered life-changing injuries requiring multiple surgeries after the accident. The couple is seeking damages for pain, suffering, and lost wages. The incident has deeply affected their family and community, while Robertson focuses on recovery and rehabilitation.
Columbia, South Carolina – Travian Robertson, the defensive line coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks, and his wife Kettiany have filed a lawsuit against the estate of Kelly Marie Johnson, the driver responsible for a head-on collision that led to serious injuries for Robertson. The couple is seeking “actual and punitive damages” for a range of issues including physical injury, pain, suffering, and lost wages stemming from the accident.
The lawsuit was officially filed in Richland County on August 28, 2025. The incident occurred just before 6 a.m. on August 22, 2025, on U.S. 76/Dutch Fork Road near Chapin, South Carolina. Kelly Marie Johnson, a 35-year-old resident of Columbia, was driving a 2014 Nissan Pathfinder when she drifted over the center line and collided head-on with Robertson’s 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe. Johnson tragically died at the scene.
Following the crash, Robertson was transported to the trauma ICU at Prisma Health Richland hospital, where he spent ten days recuperating before being released on September 5, 2025. The injuries he sustained were severe and life-changing, necessitating a total of five surgeries.
The lawsuit claims that Johnson was intoxicated during the crash, having consumed alcoholic beverages to the point of impairment. An incident report from the South Carolina Highway Patrol also indicated that she was “under the influence” at the time of the accident. As a result, the lawsuit alleges that Johnson’s reckless actions led to injuries that caused loss of services, companionship, and affection for both Travian and Kettiany Robertson.
In light of his injuries, Travian Robertson has expressed gratitude for the support received from the community since the incident. He is currently focusing on his recovery and rehabilitation with hopes of returning to his roles as a husband, father, and coach. Although he has not resumed full coaching duties, he has participated virtually in team game planning, and was recently seen observing a practice from a balcony in a wheelchair, wearing a headset.
Since the accident, Robertson has been actively involved in connecting with his team members. Kettiany Robertson has played a crucial role in his recovery, driving him to the practice facility to help him reconnect with the team. Head coach Shane Beamer and defensive coordinator Clayton White have been in regular communication with him and noted that he is making substantial progress in his recovery.
Background Context
Travian Robertson, who played as a defensive line player for the South Carolina Gamecocks from 2007 to 2011, has served as the team’s D-line coach since 2023. His experience as a player and current position as a coach have made him a well-regarded figure in the South Carolina sports community. The accident has significantly impacted not only his health and coaching duties, but also the emotional wellbeing of his family.
FAQ
What prompted the lawsuit by Travian Robertson and his wife?
Travian Robertson and his wife Kettiany have filed a lawsuit against the estate of Kelly Marie Johnson, the woman responsible for a head-on collision that injured Robertson. The lawsuit seeks “actual and punitive damages” for physical injury, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other unspecified matters.
Travian Robertson and his wife Kettiany have filed a lawsuit against the estate of Kelly Marie Johnson, the woman responsible for a head-on collision that injured Robertson. The lawsuit seeks “actual and punitive damages” for physical injury, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other unspecified matters.
What injuries did Travian Robertson sustain in the accident?
Following the accident, Travian Robertson was transported to the trauma ICU at Prisma Health Richland hospital where he spent 10 days. He sustained severe and life-changing injuries, requiring a total of five surgeries.
What were the circumstances of the accident?
The collision occurred just before 6 a.m. on August 22, 2025, on U.S. 76/Dutch Fork Road near Chapin, South Carolina. Kelly Marie Johnson was driving when she drifted over the center line and collided with Robertson’s vehicle, resulting in her death at the scene.
What professional role does Travian Robertson hold?
Travian Robertson is currently the defensive line coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks, having served in this role since 2023.
Key Features Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Lawsuit Filed | Richland County, August 28, 2025 |
| Accident Date | August 22, 2025 |
| Vehicle Involved | Travian Robertson’s 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe and Kelly Johnson’s 2014 Nissan Pathfinder |
| Injuries | Severe and life-changing, requiring five surgeries |
| Personal Support | Community, family, and coaching staff |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- HeraldOnline: University of South Carolina Sports
- Google Search: Travian Robertson lawsuit
- Bleacher Report: Diego Pavia Lawsuit
- Wikipedia: NCAA
- Sports Illustrated: South Carolina RB Comments
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lawsuit
- WCNC: Phillip Adams Lawsuit
- Google News: Travian Robertson accident
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
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