Jennifer Wingate of Saluda County High School Died in Car Accident, What Actually Happened?

Publish date: 2024-07-16

In an unfortunate turn of events, Jennifer Brooke Wingate, a dedicated band director and girl’s soccer coach from Saluda County High School lost her life in a car accident. The incident has left the community in shock as they mourn the loss of a beloved figure who was deeply ingrained in the fabric of their lives.

Who was Jennifer Wingate?

Jennifer Wingate, fondly known as “Jen,” was a vibrant personality and a resident of Lexington, South Carolina. At just 34 years old, she had already made a significant impact in the lives of the students and faculty at Saluda middle and high schools. Her life was cut short just shy of her 35th birthday, leaving behind a void that will not be easily filled.

Jennifer Wingate Career

Wingate was a graduate of Newberry College and had a passion for music and sports. As the band director and girls’ soccer coach at Saluda County High School, she combined her love for both fields, inspiring her students to strive for excellence in all they did. Her nurturing nature and infectious enthusiasm created a supportive environment in which her students could thrive.

Saluda High School

Our Saluda High School and Saluda County Schools community are saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of Saluda High School Band Director and Girls Soccer Coach, Jennifer Wingate. Ms. Wingate’s contributions to our school and community were invaluable. Our deepest condolences go out to her family and to those students and parents she taught, coached and collaborated with each day. In support, our district’s school counselors and local clergy will be available at the school to assist students and staff through this difficult time. Please keep her family and the school community in your thoughts and prayers.

What happened to Jennifer Wingate?

The fatal accident occurred around 10:30 p.m. Thursday on the 1300 block of Lake Murray Boulevard. Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher identified Jennifer as the victim of this deadly crash. The sudden loss has left the community in shock, as they grapple with the untimely departure of a beloved educator and friend.

What was the Cause of Jennifer Wingate Death: A Drunken Driving Incident

Chelsie B. Pittman, 31, has been charged in connection with the accident. She faces charges of felony driving under the influence, resulting in death; habitual offender, causing death when license has been canceled, suspended, or revoked; and driving under suspension, third or subsequent offense.

Jennifer Wingate Obituary

Jennifer Brooke Wingate will be remembered as a woman full of talent, humor, love, and compassion. Her passion for education and dedication to her students was evident in her everyday actions. As the news of her passing spreads, tributes have poured in from all corners, reflecting the profound impact she had on those around her.

Billie Jean Shaw

Tonight, many are mourning the loss of a beloved educator from Lexington County. Jennifer Brooke Wingate, was the band director and girls soccer coach at Saluda High School. According to investigators with Irmo PD, Wingate was the victim of a DUI crash Thursday night around 10:30 on Lake Murray Blvd. near Kroger. Wingate was traveling westbound on Lake Murray Blvd. when she was hit from behind by another car.The coroner says Wingate died at the hospital. Behind the wheel, investigators say was 31-year-old Cheslie B. Pittman who has been charged with the following:- felony driving under the influence, resulting in death-habitual offender -causing death when license has been canceled, suspended or revoked- driving under suspension, third or subsequent offenseSaluda High released the following statement about Wingate’s death, “Our deepest condolences go out to her family and to those students and parents she taught, coached and collaborated with each day,” the school said. “In support, our district’s school counselors and local clergy will be available at the school to assist students and staff through this difficult time.”Pittman will appear in bond court Saturday morning. WIS will be there.

The family has not yet released any plans for a memorial service and has requested privacy during this difficult time. As they navigate through this tragic loss of a daughter, sister, and friend, they are surrounded by a community that shares their grief and stands with them in solidarity.

In the face of such a devastating loss, it is important to remember the remarkable woman that Jennifer was. She has left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire her students and colleagues for years to come. May her soul rest in peace.