Janyne Renee Mbeng Killed in Cayce Hit-and-Run Accident
Investigators are searching for the driver who fled the scene on Frink Street early Aug. 23
Janyne Renee Mbeng, 37, was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Frink Street in Cayce, South Carolina, early Aug. 23, according to the Cayce Police Department.
The collision happened at approximately 3:30 a.m. The driver of the vehicle struck Mbeng and fled the scene without rendering aid or contacting authorities. Mbeng, a mother of three who worked in the medical field, died from her injuries. Her family is now pleading for witnesses to come forward.
Investigators are reviewing surveillance video from the area and collecting evidence to identify the suspect vehicle. No arrests have been made.
Police urge anyone with information to contact the Cayce Police Department Tip Line or Crime Stoppers.
What evidence are investigators reviewing on Frink Street?
As Cayce detectives comb through surveillance footage to track down the fleeing driver, legal professionals emphasize the importance of independent case evaluations.
Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, said, "Identifying a driver responsible for fleeing a serious collision can take weeks or months, leaving affected families waiting anxiously for answers while medical bills continue piling up without relief. Delayed identification often stalls insurance claims and investigations alike."
"An attorney can push forward gathering evidence, coordinating with law enforcement, and keeping pressure on every lead until answers finally emerge," added Bond, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News.
How do hit-and-run death impact the Cayce community?
The sudden loss of a loved one in a hit-and-run leaves families grappling with deep grief and unanswered questions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2,872 people died in traffic crashes involving hit-and-run drivers nationwide in 2023, a 3.4% decrease from 2,972 in 2022.
While the criminal justice system focuses on locating the suspect, families of victims like Mbeng often face overwhelming emotional and financial burdens.
South Carolina wrongful death statute
Under S.C. Code § 15-51-10, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. South Carolina applies modified comparative fault (51% bar). The statute of limitations is 3 years.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and mental shock and suffering.
"Hit-and-run crash investigations depend heavily on collecting broken vehicle debris, paint scrapings, and nearby surveillance footage," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.
Formica, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News, noted, "An attorney helps surviving relatives by launching independent evidence searches, coordinating with local law enforcement investigators, and reviewing uninsured motorist coverage options to provide essential financial protection after devastating events."