A University of South Carolina student has passed away after a pickup truck struck them on the corner of Assembly and Blossom streets on Wednesday.
"The university received confirmation of the death of one of our students, Nathaniel "Nate" Baker, a 21-year-old junior and business major from Glen Allen, Virginia," University Spokesperson Collyn Taylor said in a statement.
Baker was riding a motorcycle at the time of the accident, according to the Columbia Police Department. The pickup failed to yield on a left turn, resulting in the crash, according to police. Baker was taken to Prisma Health Richland Hospital, where he later died.
The driver, 24-year-old Rosali Fernandez Cruz, fled on foot along with the other occupants of the car, according to police. Police arrested Fernandez Cruz and have charged him with hit-and-run resulting in death, failure to render aid and driving without a license.
The Columbia Police Department said Fernandez Cruz is also wanted by the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
"Our prayers and deepest sympathies go out to Nate's family and friends during this difficult time. Counseling staff are actively working with those impacted and services are available to any member of our campus community affected by this tragedy. The accident is currently under investigation by the Columbia Police Department," Taylor said.
This is a developing story, check back for more updates.