DARLINGTON COUNTY, S.C. — Authorities say a U.S. Army drone operator stationed at Fort Bragg has been charged in a deadly South Carolina crash that killed a husband and wife from North Carolina earlier this year.

Army Specialist Arrested in Deadly Collision

According to CBS17, Spc. Daryl Causey, a Georgia native and drone operator assigned to Fort Bragg, was arrested Tuesday and charged with two counts of reckless homicide. The charges stem from a three-vehicle collision that occurred on January 8 along Highway 52 near Horse Branch Trail in Darlington County.

The crash claimed the lives of William Tyler Nichols, 31, and his wife, Christie Thomas Nichols, 30, both residents of North Carolina. Four others, including a passenger in Causey’s car, were injured.

Details of the Fatal Crash

Investigators with the South Carolina Highway Patrol said the crash began when Causey’s 2013 Nissan Altima and a 2022 Toyota Camry were traveling south on Highway 52 as a 2017 Ford F-350 pickup approached from the north.

Troopers said Causey’s vehicle collided with the Camry, causing it to cross the center line, where it was struck by the northbound pickup truck. The impact was devastating — both William and Christie Nichols were pronounced dead at the scene.

Military and Legal Response

A spokesperson for the 82nd Airborne Division, CPT Tyler S. Davidson, confirmed that the military is aware of Causey’s arrest but referred questions to the South Carolina Highway Patrol. The Army has not released further comment on Causey’s duty status or possible administrative actions pending the outcome of his case.

Causey was booked into the W. Glenn Campbell Detention Center in Darlington County and later released on a $50,000 bond. A judge ordered him not to have contact with the victims’ families, and his next court date is set for November 12.

Remembering the Victims

The Nichols family, described by friends as kind and devoted, were well-known in their North Carolina community. Their deaths have left a lasting impact on those who knew them. Local residents have expressed frustration and sadness over the loss, as well as renewed concern about reckless driving on rural highways.

Looking Ahead

As the investigation continues, state troopers say additional evidence and reconstruction reports will help determine final accountability in the crash. Causey could face significant prison time if convicted on both counts.

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