The community of Camden and the surrounding Kershaw County area are mourning the loss of 73-year-old Walter Grannen III, who was tragically killed in a vehicle collision on Sunday morning, April 26, 2026. Walter, a resident of the Lexington area, was known for his passion for classic automobiles—a hobby that placed him on the road in a distinctive T-Bucket Hot Rod during the time of the fatal incident.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the collision occurred during the early morning hours on SC 24 (Highway 34) near the intersection of South Gate Drive. Walter was operating his modified Ford Model T, heading east, when the vehicle reportedly crossed the center line for reasons that remain under active investigation. This lane deviation resulted in a violent head-on collision with a westbound Ford Expedition. Kershaw County Coroner David West arrived at the scene shortly after the 911 call, but tragically, Walter had sustained injuries that were too severe for life-saving measures; he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The occupants of the Ford Expedition involved in the strike were met with the sudden impact of the classic car, though the full extent of any injuries sustained by those in the SUV has not yet been detailed by authorities. The stretch of SC 24 was closed for several hours as investigators worked to map the sequence of events and determine if mechanical failure or other factors contributed to the T-Bucket’s movement into the oncoming lane.
Walter Grannen III is remembered by his friends and fellow enthusiasts as a man who appreciated the craftsmanship and history of classic cars. His sudden passing leaves a void in the Lexington community and serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of road travel, even for experienced drivers. As his family prepares for his final farewell, the Camden community offers its deepest condolences, remembering Walter as a man who lived with spirit and a deep love for the open road.
