24-05-2025
WATCH: Police escort through Lake City for Florence County deputy killed in wreck
LAKE CITY, S.C. (WBTW) — A procession of nearly 30 law enforcement vehicles and a helicopter moved through Lake City Saturday in tribute to Nathaniel Ansay, a 24-year-old Florence County deputy who died in a wreck last week.
Ansay joined the force in October 2023, graduating from the state Criminal Justice Academy as a Class 1 officer in March.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, Ansay was driving a 2023 Ford SUV north on Olanta Highway and a 2008 GMC SUV was driving south when the two cars collided.
The other driver was transported to an area hospital with undisclosed injuries, and authorities said the incident remains under investigation.
Ansay's line-of-duty death prompted tributes to pour in, including from Gov. Henry McMaster and Sheriff TJ Joye.
'Peggy and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Florence County Sheriff's Deputy Nate Ansay,' McMaster said in a statement. 'We join countless others in praying for his family, the FCSO, and the entire Florence community during this difficult time.'
Local law enforcement agencies also reacted.
'We stand in solemn solidarity with our brothers and sisters at the Florence County Sheriff's Office as they mourn the heartbreaking loss of one of their deputies, who was tragically killed in the line of duty this afternoon in a vehicle collision,' the Florence Police Department said. 'Our hearts go out to the deputy's family, loved ones, and the entire FCSO team. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.'
Arrangements to honor Deputy Ansay have been announced as follows:
Visitation and Funeral ServicesDate: May 27Time: 1 Florence Baptist Temple2308 South Irby St., Florence
Interment with HonorsImmediately following the funeralFlorence Memorial Gardens3320 South Cashua DriveFlorence
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Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here.
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