Tragic Collision in Bluffton Leads to Long Sentence for Drunk Driver

Tragic Collision in Bluffton Leads to Long Sentence for Drunk Driver

BLUFFTON, SC – In a heart-wrenching event that has left the community reeling, Carlos Mauricos Acosta Galvez, a 40-year-old man, pleaded guilty to a felony charge of driving under the influence (DUI) leading to the death of a motorcyclist. The collision, which took place on August 6, 2023, at a notoriously perilous intersection, has impacted many lives and sparked conversations about road safety.

A Dark Moment on the Roads

On that fateful summer day, Galvez was reportedly driving at over 100 mph on U.S. 278, nearly doubling the posted speed limit of 55 mph. Tragically, at that speed, he struck a Mercedes SUV, which in turn collided with a motorcycle driven by Marc Garrity, a 54-year-old man from Ridgeland. The impact claimed Garrity’s life immediately, marking a devastating moment for his family and friends. He was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving behind a community filled with sorrow.

The Court’s Decision

This week, in a courtroom filled with emotion, Galvez was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the DUI charge, with 398 days already served in combined custody prior to the trial. This means he will actually spend about 19 years behind bars. Additionally, he received a 15-year sentence for causing serious injuries to another driver in the collision and a three-year sentence for a domestic violence misdemeanour, all to be served concurrently with his main sentence.

A Dangerous Intersection

Data reveals that the intersection of Fording Island Road and Buckwalter Parkway is infamously known for being one of the most dangerous spots in Beaufort County, with more than 66 accidents recorded between 2020 and mid-2024. Sadly, Garrity’s death was not an isolated case; he was one of eight fatalities at this location over the span of those years. Such statistics raise concerns and highlight the urgent need for improved safety measures.

Details from the Accident

As the collision unfolded, it became clear that Galvez was driving impaired, with a blood-alcohol content of .169—significantly above the legal limit. Eyewitness accounts and investigations revealed that he didn’t have a breath sample taken at the scene due to his injuries. He and another person involved were taken to Savannah’s Memorial Health University Medical Center shortly after the crash. Approximately 10 days later, he was formally charged with the serious offenses.

Statements from the Prosecutor

Assistant Solicitor Sara Malone, who was involved in the prosecution, emphasized the gravity of Galvez’s actions. She noted, “The facts in this case made it clear Mr. Galvez had absolutely no regard for the value of human life.” Such statements echo the sentiment felt by many in the community; accidents like this one leave behind a trail of heartbreak and can change lives forever.

Importantly, No Time for Celebration

Galvez also faced separate legal issues, pleading guilty in federal court for re-entering the country after being deported previously. Fortunately for him, there will be no additional jail time for the federal conviction, but he faces deportation once he completes his state prison sentence. This adds another layer to an already complicated and tragic saga.

Community Response

The community is grappling with the fallout from this devastating incident. With continued discussions swirling around road safety, there’s a sense of urgency to advocate for changes that could prevent similar tragedies in the future. Many residents are calling for improved signage, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and perhaps a review of traffic light timings in hopes of reducing accidents at this hazardous intersection.

As Bluffton mourns the loss of life and reflects on this recent collision, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safe driving and the catastrophic consequences of driving under the influence. Each accident carries a story and a meaningful lesson, leaving a lasting impact on every community.