Jacob Kaul charged after pedestrian hit-and-run crash on Rivers Avenue

Driver fled after striking pedestrian near Hawthorne Drive in North Charleston

January 05, 2026 | North Charleston, SC

A tragic hit-and-run incident claimed the life of a pedestrian on Rivers Avenue in North Charleston on New Year's Day.

Jacob Montgomery Kaul, 31, was arrested after a pedestrian was fatally struck on Rivers Avenue near Hawthorne Drive in North Charleston.

What Happened in the Crash?

The collision occurred around 7:49 p.m. near Hawthorne Drive when a vehicle struck the unidentified victim. The driver fled the scene, leaving the pedestrian with fatal injuries.

• Date and Time: Jan. 1, approximately 7:49 p.m.
• Location: Rivers Avenue near Hawthorne Drive, North Charleston, S.C.
• Victim Status: Unidentified pedestrian pronounced dead at the scene from injuries.
• Vehicle Involved: Unknown make and model, and driver did not stop.
• Initial Response: North Charleston Police Department arrived to secure the area and begin evidence collection.

Investigation Leads to Arrest

Authorities quickly identified and apprehended a suspect following the incident. Jacob Montgomery Kaul, 31, was arrested on Saturday and charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death. He was booked into the Al Cannon Detention Center.

The North Charleston Police Department's thorough investigation highlighted the importance of witness statements and forensic analysis in resolving such cases.

Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Happen?

Hit-and-run incidents remain a significant concern on U.S. roadways, often driven by factors like fear of legal consequences, intoxication, or unlicensed driving. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), these crashes account for about 11% of all collisions nationwide.

These figures underscore the need for heightened awareness and stricter enforcement to prevent such tragedies.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving hit-and-run collisions, prompt and independent investigations play a crucial role in establishing accountability.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that must be fully considered. These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has been injured by a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.”

Key takeaways from legal perspectives on pedestrian accidents:

• Time-sensitive evidence collection is essential to preserve details like vehicle debris or surveillance footage.
• Families may pursue wrongful death claims to seek compensation for losses including income, companionship, and emotional distress.
• Attorneys can advocate against insurance pressures for low settlements, ensuring fair outcomes.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.”

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