Chapin, SC, August 26, 2025
News Summary
A head-on collision on Dutch Fork Road in Chapin has resulted in the death of a 35-year-old woman, Kelly M. Johnson, and left assistant football coach Travian Robertson hospitalized. The accident involved Johnson’s Nissan Pathfinder, which crossed the center line and collided with Robertson’s Chevrolet Tahoe. Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, with the community in shock as Robertson’s condition stabilizes. Local authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution in the area as road conditions are reassessed.
Chapin, South Carolina – A tragic collision on Dutch Fork Road early on August 22 has resulted in the death of a 35-year-old woman and left an assistant football coach from the University of South Carolina hospitalized. The accident occurred around 5:45 a.m. when Kelly M. Johnson, a resident of Columbia, SC, was driving a 2014 Nissan Pathfinder westbound and crossed the center line, leading to a head-on collision with Travian Robertson’s eastbound 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe.
Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene, while Robertson sustained injuries that required hospitalization. Reports indicate that he is currently recovering in the trauma ICU at Prisma Health Richland hospital, and his condition is stated to be stable. USC head coach Shane Beamer mentioned that Robertson is expected to make a full recovery.
The accident has prompted an investigation by the Richland County Coroner’s Office to determine the cause of the crash. As of now, it remains unclear whether seat belts were worn by either driver at the time of the incident. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is also involved in the ongoing investigation of the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Following the accident, Dutch Fork Road was closed between Wessinger Road and Three Dog Road, resulting in significant traffic delays and necessitating detours for drivers in the area. Local law enforcement and emergency services responded promptly to the scene to manage the situation and ensure the safety of other road users.
This collision has shocked the local community, particularly as Travian Robertson is known for his role as an assistant coach with the USC football team, which is preparing for the 2025 season and is scheduled to face Virginia Tech. The university’s football program has expressed concerns over the incident and will likely be providing support for Robertson and his family during this time.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging drivers on Dutch Fork Road and surrounding areas to exercise caution, particularly as road conditions and safety measures are reassessed following this heartbreaking incident. The investigation’s findings may bring to light additional factors that contributed to this tragic event, as the community and those close to the victims seek answers.
FAQ Section
What caused the fatal collision involving Kelly M. Johnson and Travian Robertson?
The cause of the collision is currently under investigation by the Richland County Coroner’s Office and the South Carolina Highway Patrol. It is known that Johnson’s vehicle crossed the center line, leading to a head-on collision with Robertson’s vehicle.
What is the condition of Travian Robertson following the accident?
Robertson is hospitalized in the trauma ICU at Prisma Health Richland hospital. His condition is reported to be stable, and he is expected to recover fully.
Was there any information about seat belt usage during the crash?
As of the latest updates, there is no information available regarding whether seat belts were worn by either driver at the time of the collision.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | August 22, 5:45 a.m. |
| Location | Dutch Fork Road, Chapin, SC |
| Deceased Driver | Kelly M. Johnson, 35, Columbia, SC |
| Other Driver | Travian Robertson, USC Assistant Coach |
| Vehicle Types | 2014 Nissan Pathfinder & 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing by Richland County Coroner’s Office and Highway Patrol |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
South Carolina High School Football Season Kicks Off
University of South Carolina Coach Injured in Car Accident
USC Defensive Line Coach Hospitalized After Fatal Accident
Tragic Car Crash Injures Gamecocks Coach in Chapin
Tragic Tour Bus Crash Claims Five Lives in New York
South Carolina Defensive Line Coach Hospitalized After Accident
High School Football Season Begins in South Carolina
South Carolina Coach Travian Robertson in Stable Condition After Accident
Cheapest Car Insurance Options in South Carolina
California Man Rescued After Trapped Behind Waterfall
Additional Resources
- WISTV: Coroner IDs Person Killed in Crash Near Chapin
- ESPN: South Carolina Football Assistant Robertson Hospitalized
- The State: Traffic News
- WACH: Coroner Identifies Victim in Dutch Fork Road Crash
- ABC Columbia: Driver ID’d in Dutch Fork Rd Fatal Crash
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- Google Search: Traffic Safety in South Carolina
- Google Scholar: Road Safety Accidents
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Accidents
- Google News: South Carolina Traffic Accidents
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
