ROCK HILL, S.C. — The Rock Hill Police Department is investigating a fatal crash that killed Angelica Baxter, a mother of three, on Monday night near Cherry Road. Authorities said Baxter was attempting to cross the street when she was struck by a pickup truck.
A special traffic accident reconstruction team is working to determine the circumstances of the crash. Police stated that Baxter was outside of a crosswalk and wearing dark clothing when she was struck west of Main Street.
Baxter’s relatives traveled to the scene searching for answers about her death. Her cousin, Helzar Baxter, drove from Columbia to Rock Hill after learning about the collision.
“We called her Angel because that was our little angel,” Helzar Baxter said. “She was special to the family. She had three little children.”
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Helzar described arriving at the scene after emergency responders. “I found out she was hit by a car,” Helzar said. “When I got out here, of course she was already gone.”
Family members said they do not know where Baxter was headed at the time, but they are seeking accountability and quick answers from investigators.
Relatives said they want information on how the crash happened, including whether speed or driver distraction played a role.
“Like, what’s the guy speeding? Was there, you know, was he not paying attention? Was he on his cell phone? Like, we need answers,” a family member said.
The relative noted the importance of closure for Baxter’s children and parents. “We need answers. Her family, her kids, her parents, my family, we deserve closure,” the relative said. “If it was an accident, I understand it was an accident. But give us some type of peace at this.”
Bystanders who heard the crash rushed toward the area to offer assistance. A witness who was nearby in a vehicle with her 12-year-old daughter recalled the incident.
“What we saw out here that night ... traumatizing. It was very traumatizing,” the witness said. “My daughter was in the car with me; she was hollering.”
Police said the pickup truck driver drove to a nearby store to wait for law enforcement. The driver’s mother stated that her family is cooperating with police and added that she is deeply saddened because a mother lost her life and the driver will be forever impacted.
The special traffic accident reconstruction team is continuing its investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.