Tragic Bicycle Accident Claims the Life of Bluffton Man
In a heart-wrenching incident that has left the Bluffton community reeling, a 40-year-old local man has lost his life following a tragic collision with a car. Zachary Daniel Buzzetto, a familiar face in the Bluffton area, met his untimely demise on the night of November 22, when he was struck while attempting to cross Fording Island Road.
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred around 8:32 p.m., near the busy intersection of Fording Island Road and Gateway Village Road, just outside Bluffton town limits and close to a well-known Home Depot store. Buzzetto, a former resident of St. Helena Island, was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving friends and family in shock.
According to Lance Cpl. Brittany Glover of the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP), Buzzetto was attempting to cross the road when he was struck by a 2019 Honda Accord traveling west on U.S. 278. It’s important to note that there are no crosswalks in this particular intersection, raising questions about the safety measures in place for pedestrians and cyclists in the area.
Community Response
The speed limit in this area is 45 mph, and the absence of designated crosswalks could contribute to the risks that cyclists face while navigating busy roads. While the driver of the Honda remained on the scene and was cooperative with authorities, no criminal charges were filed against them.
After the crash, all westbound lanes of the highway were closed for over an hour while crews worked to clear the scene. The event has sparked a community outcry, prompting many residents to call for improved safety measures for cyclists and pedestrians.
Remembering Zachary
As the community mourns the loss of Zachary Buzzetto, friends and family have expressed their shock and sadness. Funeral arrangements are still pending, but many are already rallying together to celebrate his life and legacy. A former St. Helena Island resident, Buzzetto was known as a friendly and active member of the community, and his passing leaves a significant void.
Though details surrounding the cause and manner of Buzzetto’s death have not been disclosed by the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office, there are crucial discussions about whether he was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of safety gear when cycling, especially in areas with heavy traffic.
A Call for Action
The tragic loss of Zachary Buzzetto has ignited conversations about road safety and the need for better infrastructure to protect cyclists in Bluffton and surrounding areas. Many community members are urging local officials to take swift action to improve crosswalks, signage, and designated bike lanes to prevent future accidents.
As the investigation by the SCHP continues, the community remains united in grief, and residents are reflecting on the necessary steps that can be taken to honor Buzzetto’s memory. Unfortunately, tragedy often opens the dialogue for change, and hopefully, this heart-wrenching incident can pave the way for a safer environment for all road users.
Stay updated for more information on funeral arrangements and how the community plans to remember Zachary Buzzetto. His story, though cut short too soon, will certainly resonate within the hearts of many.
