Columbia Woman Charged After Saluda High School Educator Killed in Irmo Crash

IRMO, S.C. – A tragic accident in Irmo has left the community mourning the loss of a beloved educator after a Columbia woman was charged in connection with the crash.

A Columbia woman, Chelsie B. Pittman, 31, is facing serious charges following a fatal car crash that occurred on Thursday night on the 1300 block of Lake Murray Blvd. near Kroger.

The crash resulted in the death of Jennifer Brooke Wingate, 34, a well-respected band director and girls soccer coach at Saluda High School. Wingate, who was traveling westbound on Lake Murray Blvd., was hit from behind by another car. She was rushed to the hospital but tragically succumbed to her injuries, according to Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher.

Saluda High School expressed their condolences, stating, “Her contributions to the school and the community were invaluable. Our deepest condolences go out to her family and to those students and parents she taught, coached and collaborated with each day.”

Charges and Investigation

Chelsie B. Pittman is facing charges of felony driving under the influence resulting in death, habitual offender causing death when a license has been canceled, suspended or revoked, and driving under suspension for the third or subsequent offense.

The Irmo Police Department, with the assistance of the South Carolina Highway Patrol’s MAIT, is currently investigating the crash. After reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and interviewing witnesses, officers determined Pittman to be at fault for the tragic incident.

Pittman has been taken into custody and booked into the Lexington County Detention Center.

Support for the Community

In the wake of this devastating loss, the school district’s counselors and local clergy will be available at Saluda High School to assist students and staff as they navigate this difficult time.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of Jennifer Brooke Wingate, as well as the entire Saluda High School community, during this time of profound grief and loss.