Two 19-year-old women serving in the South Carolina Army National Guard tragically died in a car accident earlier this month. Carol Santiago and Krystal Lopez were involved in a head-on collision with a pickup truck on March 16. Santiago, a passenger in the sedan, died at the scene, while Lopez, the driver, passed away from her injuries on March 23. The driver of the pickup truck and Lopez were taken to the hospital for treatment.
The South Carolina Army National Guard expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of both Lopez and Santiago. Col. Linda J. Riedel, commander of the 228th Theater Tactical Signal Brigade, shared heartfelt words about Lopez and honored her dedication and pride when wearing the uniform. Major General Van McCarty, adjutant general in South Carolina, also extended condolences to the families of the two young women and asked for support and prayers during this difficult time. The collision is still under investigation as the Army National Guard mourns the loss of their comrades.
Santiago, a human resources specialist from Lancaster, South Carolina, was assigned to the 228th Theater Tactical Signal Brigade. She received the Army Service Ribbon among other awards and decorations for her service. Lopez, also from Lancaster, was a paralegal specialist in the same brigade. Both women were dedicated members of the National Guard, serving their country with pride and distinction.
The tragic loss of Santiago and Lopez has deeply impacted the South Carolina Army National Guard community. The organization acknowledges the tremendous loss of losing two family members in such a devastating incident. The National Guard is relying on the support and solidarity of its members and the wider community as they come to terms with the loss of two young women who exemplified dedication and service.
As the investigation into the head-on collision continues, the families and colleagues of Santiago and Lopez are grappling with the immense grief and shock of their sudden passing. The National Guard is providing support to those affected by the accident and is working to honor the memory and service of the two young women who were taken too soon. The entire South Carolina Army National Guard is coming together to pay tribute to their fallen comrades and to offer comfort and assistance to those mourning their loss.
The South Carolina Army National Guard has expressed profound sadness and sorrow over the tragic deaths of Carol Santiago and Krystal Lopez. The loss of two young women who were dedicated members of the organization has left a deep void in their community. Santiago and Lopez will be remembered for their service, dedication, and the positive impact they had on those around them. The National Guard is coming together to support the families and friends of the two women and to honor their memory through continued service and remembrance.
