Child killed in three-car crash in Upstate on I-85

SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) – State troopers are investigating a fatal accident that occurred Saturday evening.

According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the accident occurred on I-18 near mile marker 81 around 8:05 p.m.

Three cars were involved in the accident; a 2019 Ford F-650, a 2016 Dodge RAM pickup and a 2015 Mazda6.

The Ford F650, Dodge RAM and Mazda6 were traveling north on I-85. The Dodge pickup and Mazda were slowed in traffic when the Ford collided with the Mazda, causing the Mazda to crash into the Dodge pickup.

The driver of the Ford F650 was taken to the hospital to be treated for his injuries. The two occupants of the Dodge were uninjured.

There were five occupants in the Mazda6, four of whom were taken to a nearby hospital and the fifth occupant died as a result of the accident.

The Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased as 11-year-old Ahanna Celeste Avila-Alcantara of Gaffney. Alcantara was pronounced dead at approximately 8:21 p.m

A forensic examination of the child is scheduled for Monday.