South Charleston, West Virginia — A 12-year-old boy died Monday night after being struck by a vehicle at an intersection in South Charleston, leaving his family, classmates and members of the local community grieving.
Hunter Allen Combs, a sixth-grade student at Dunbar Middle School, was struck along MacCorkle Avenue near Rock Lake Drive on Monday, Sept. 21, according to the South Charleston Police Department.
Hunter was taken to a local hospital after the crash but later died from what police described as “substantial” injuries.
Police Say Driver Did Not Violate Any Laws
Following the crash, South Charleston police obtained and reviewed surveillance footage from the area as part of their investigation. According to police, the footage showed no evidence that the driver had violated any laws.
The circumstances surrounding the collision have nevertheless drawn attention to the intersection, particularly because residents say the area is regularly used by people walking and biking.
The investigation remains focused on what happened at the intersection when Hunter was struck.
Family Remembers Hunter as a Protective Brother
Hunter had recently turned 12 and was the third child in his family. His mother, Lisa Combs, described him as a protective older and younger brother who cared deeply about his siblings. She shared memories of Hunter in a GoFundMe fundraiser created to help the family with funeral expenses.
“He was a protector for his younger brother and his oldest brother,” Lisa wrote in the fundraiser. “He wouldn’t allow anyone to bully his brothers; that’s something Hunter was against.”
She also remembered the more playful side of her son.
“Hunter Allen brought so much happiness into our family, but then he could be a pain in the butt,” his mother wrote.
She added that Hunter’s smile “could brighten anyone’s day.” Hunter was born and raised in South Charleston and attended Dunbar Middle School. His brother Bentley also attended the school.
Dunbar Middle School Community Grieves
Hunter’s death has also deeply affected his classmates and teachers. Dunbar Middle School released a statement Tuesday acknowledging the sudden loss and expressing support for Hunter’s loved ones.
“Our school community is grieving the sudden loss of a classmate. Our hearts are with the student’s family, friends, and classmates,” the school said, according to WSAZ.
The school also made grief counselors available to students who wanted someone to talk to following the tragedy. Staff members were also prepared to listen and provide support as students and families processed the loss.
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Residents Raise Concerns About Intersection
The deadly crash has prompted some South Charleston residents to discuss safety around the intersection. Howard Waldron, who has lived in the area for about four years, told that visibility can become difficult during the evening.
“The intersection is very unlit. The crosswalk isn’t very lit up very well,” Waldron said.
His comments highlight concerns about lighting and visibility for pedestrians using the area, particularly after sunset.
South Charleston Mayor Frank Mullens offered a different perspective, telling that he believes the intersection is safer today than it was in the past.
According to the mayor, nearby buildings previously made it more difficult for drivers to see pedestrians approaching the intersection.
Family Says Hunter Was Taken Too Soon
As Hunter’s family prepares to say goodbye, his mother shared an emotional message about the loss of her son.
The GoFundMe fundraiser describes the family as struggling to come to terms with his sudden death and facing the difficult task of arranging his funeral.
“My boy was taken from us way too soon. Life isn’t fair. Our Hunter Bear will be missed deeply. Fly high, my boy,” Lisa wrote.
Hunter’s death has left his family without a 12-year-old son and brother, while his classmates are facing the sudden loss of someone they knew at school.
Hunter’s family and school community are now mourning a young life that ended far too soon. Share a message of support for Hunter’s loved ones in the comments below.
