Mark Wharton killed in hit-and-run on Highway 378 near Roseland Drive

Monetta motorcyclist struck by fleeing vehicle after colliding with deer on Columbia Highway

April 22, 2026 | Saluda, SC

Mark W. Wharton, 61, from Monetta, lost his life in a tragic hit-and-run incident in Saluda County on April 22.

What Happened in the Crash?

Mark W. Wharton, 61, died after he was hit by a vehicle on U.S. Highway 378 near Roseland Drive in Saluda County following a motorcycle crash.

Wharton was riding his 2000 Suzuki motorcycle westbound on Columbia Highway, also known as U.S. Highway 378, near the intersection with Roseland Drive around 10:10 p.m. He collided with a deer, which left him in the roadway. Shortly after, an unidentified vehicle struck him and the driver fled the scene without stopping.

Key details include:

• Victim: Mark W. Wharton, 61, of Monetta
• Vehicle: 2000 Suzuki motorcycle
• Location: U.S. Highway 378 near Roseland Drive, Saluda County
• Time: Approximately 10:10 p.m. on April 22
• Outcome: Fatal injuries at the scene

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into this fatal collision.

Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Occur?

Hit-and-run incidents often stem from drivers' fear of legal repercussions, leading them to evade responsibility. These crashes highlight the dangers of roadways, especially at night when wildlife encounters increase.

According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, over one hit-and-run crash happens every minute on U.S. roads, with an average of 682,000 such incidents annually since 2006.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving hit-and-run collisions, thorough investigations are crucial to establish accountability.

"Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence," said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. "These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has been injured at the hands of a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve. An attorney can also ensure that a hit-and-run driver is held accountable for their reckless actions."

Key takeaways:

• Drivers must remain at the scene to provide aid and exchange information.
• Fleeing can result in serious criminal charges.
• Independent investigations help protect victims' rights and pursue compensation.

Pending investigation outcomes, Wharton's family may pursue a wrongful death claim covering funeral costs, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.

"An incident is considered a wrongful death when either a person or entity commits a wrongful or negligent act resulting in a person's death," said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. "When vehicle accident fatalities result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, family members are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action against the responsible motorist."

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