Truck struck a child who entered the roadway near a restaurant, leaving the toddler fatally injured
April 13, 2026 | Anderson, SC
Authorities in Anderson, South Carolina, arrested David Metz following a tragic incident on April 13 that claimed the life of a young child.
The crash occurred around 8:15 p.m. in the 1500 block of South Murray Avenue, where a toddler was struck by a truck driven by Metz.
David Metz was arrested and charged with DUI after a truck struck a toddler who entered the roadway near the 1500 block of South Murray Avenue in Anderson County.
What Happened in the Crash?
The child had followed his father out the back door of a local restaurant as the father disposed of trash. Unaware of the boy trailing behind, the father did not notice the child step into the street. Metz, operating the truck, struck the toddler and briefly continued driving before returning to the scene.
- Date and Time: April 13, approximately 8:15 p.m.
- Location: 1500 block of South Murray Avenue, Anderson, SC
- Vehicles Involved: Truck driven by David Metz
- Victim: Toddler boy who suffered life-threatening injuries
- Outcome: Child pronounced deceased at 9:10 p.m. at a local hospital
- Arrest: Metz was charged with driving under the influence (DUI), required to wear a GPS monitor, and to avoid contact with the victim's family
The Anderson Police Department leads the investigation, with assistance from South Carolina state troopers.
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Impaired driving remains a significant factor in preventable crashes, endangering pedestrians and motorists alike. According to the National Safety Council, alcohol, drugs, or medications contribute to 10% of fatal automobile accidents, making them the second-leading cause of such deaths in the United States.
Statistic |
Value |
Source |
|---|
Percentage of fatal crashes due to impaired driving |
10% |
National Safety Council |
Ranking as a cause of automobile fatalities |
Second-leading |
National Safety Council |
Annual impaired driving deaths (U.S.) |
Over 10,000 |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) |
Pedestrian fatalities involving alcohol |
48% |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
Legal Insights
National legal analysts provide perspective on incidents involving impaired drivers and potential recourse for affected families.
"Drunken and drugged drivers face criminal charges after accidents that harm or kill others," noted Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. "In cases such as this, families may pursue compensation via civil lawsuits against the at-fault party."
- Impaired driving leads to both criminal penalties and civil liabilities.
- Victims' families can seek damages for loss, suffering, and distress.
- Legal representation ensures rights are protected during investigations.
"The emotional toll after losing a loved one in a crash is immense," said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. "Staying informed on the investigation helps safeguard legal interests in wrongful death scenarios."
- Wrongful death claims cover companionship loss and emotional impacts.
- Prompt legal action preserves evidence and opportunities for justice.
- Analysts emphasize the importance of professional guidance post-tragedy.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Metz underwent a bond hearing where conditions were imposed to monitor his activities. The case underscores the dangers of driving under the influence, particularly in areas with pedestrian traffic like restaurant zones.
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If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one due to a drunk driver, national legal analyst Candice Bond offers free consultations to guide you.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).