The South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) reports a woman has been charged in connection to a car crash that resulted in the death of Summerton Mayor Tony Junious.
Officials said Toni Singleton, 33, from Summerton, was charged by SCHP with felony driving under the influence resulting in death.
The crash occurred on Jan 27. According to SCHP Master Trooper William Bennett, a 2010 Chevrolet Impala driven by Junious was heading west on Governor Richardson Road and a 2013 Dodge Charger driven by Singleton was heading north on Liberty Road when the two vehicles collided.
Singleton was injured following the crash and was transported to a local hospital. Junious was taken to McLeod Health Clarendon and later died from his injuries.
Junious was elected Summerton’s first Black mayor in 2022, and, according to an interview with Manning Live, was considered a well-respected member of the Summerton community.
During his life, he served on the Clarendon School Board for over 20 years and the Summerton Town Council before being elected mayor.
The Town of Summerton released a statement on Facebook following his passing:
"The Town of Summerton is shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of our beloved Mayor. Mayor Tony Junious’s life was dedicated to public service and his love for the Town of Summerton was constantly on display. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Junious family during this difficult time."
A celebration of the life for Junious was held on Feb. 3 at Scotts Branch High School.
The crash is still under investigation by SCHP. Darion Canty is currently the interim Mayor until a replacement can be voted for during Summerton's General Election on April 2.
