With profound sadness, family, friends, former players, and communities across the Midlands are mourning the tragic loss of Austin LeSane, who died in a head-on collision on Friday, July 10, 2026, in Richland County, South Carolina. His passing has left an immeasurable void in the lives of those who knew him as a devoted football coach, respected mentor, successful entrepreneur, and beloved member of the community.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 10:00 a.m. on McCords Ferry Road near Lake Dogwood Circle. Authorities reported that Austin was driving a 2014 GMC Sierra northbound when it was involved in a head-on collision with a 2020 Freightliner tractor-trailer. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Austin was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the tractor-trailer sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Austin’s loss extends far beyond the tragic accident. Throughout the Midlands, he was known as a man who dedicated his life to uplifting others. As a former coach with the Ridge View High School football program, he played an instrumental role in helping restore the Blazers into a competitive and successful team under the leadership of former head coach Perry Parks. More importantly, he invested in the lives of countless student-athletes, teaching lessons that extended beyond the football field. His encouragement, leadership, and belief in young people earned him lasting respect from players, parents, fellow coaches, and school staff.
Following news of his passing, the Ridge View Football community released a heartfelt statement recognizing his contributions and unwavering support of the program, noting that his influence helped shape the culture and success of Blazer Football. His legacy as a coach will continue through the athletes he mentored and the values he instilled in them.
Beyond athletics, Austin was also a familiar and cherished face at FishinFellas, the popular local restaurant where he helped create more than just a place to eat. For many, FishinFellas became a gathering place because of Austin’s warmth, hospitality, infectious smile, and ability to make every guest feel like family. Whether greeting customers, sharing a laugh, or lending a helping hand, he built lasting relationships that extended well beyond the restaurant’s doors.
Since the tragedy, tributes have poured in from across South Carolina. Friends, relatives, former players, customers, and community leaders have shared stories of Austin’s generosity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to serving others. Many have described him as someone who always found time to encourage those around him, celebrate the successes of others, and strengthen the community through both his coaching and his business.
Family members are welcoming friends and loved ones during visitation at their residence in Blythewood, where the community continues to gather in support and remembrance. Plans for a formal celebration of Austin’s life are also underway, providing an opportunity to honor the many lives he touched through his leadership, friendship, and service.
Although Austin LeSane’s life was tragically cut short, his legacy will continue to live on in every athlete he inspired, every customer he welcomed, every friend he encouraged, and every family member who carries his memory forward. His influence reached far beyond the football field and the restaurant he helped build—it was found in the countless acts of kindness, mentorship, and compassion that defined the way he lived.
The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of the entire community remain with the LeSane family, his friends, the Ridge View High School family, and everyone mourning this tremendous loss. May they find strength in one another, comfort in the memories they shared, and peace in knowing that Austin’s legacy of service, leadership, and love will never be forgotten.
