Anderson County, SC Motorcyclist Joseph “Jody” Ray Clardy Jr. Killed in Highway 413 Crash, Driver Charged With Felony DUI

 A tragic early-morning crash in Anderson County, South Carolina, has left the community mourning the loss of 56-year-old Joseph “Jody” Ray Clardy Jr., a longtime local resident and former paramedic. Authorities said Clardy died after his motorcycle collided with a pickup truck on Highway 413 near the intersection of Haynie Drive, a crash that has now led to felony charges against the truck driver and sparked renewed concern over roadway safety in the region.

According to the Anderson County Coroner’s Office, Clardy was riding his 2018 Harley-Davidson toward Belton when the fatal collision occurred shortly after the pickup truck attempted a left turn. Investigators said the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, driven by driver Nelson Daniel Cooley, struck the motorcycle during the turn, causing Clardy to be thrown from his bike. Emergency responders arrived quickly but were unable to save him.

First responders from multiple agencies, including Rock Springs Fire Department, Medshore Ambulance Service, Anderson County EMS, the Sheriff’s Office, and the South Carolina Highway Patrol, worked together at the scene. Despite their rapid response, Clardy was found unconscious on the roadway and later pronounced dead due to multiple traumatic injuries. Officials confirmed the crash has been ruled an accident by the coroner while still remaining under active investigation.

Authorities later charged Nelson Daniel Cooley with felony DUI resulting in death in connection with the collision. Investigators have not released additional details about impairment findings but confirmed the charge reflects the severity of the incident and the ongoing legal process. The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to examine evidence, including vehicle positions, roadway markings, and witness accounts to determine the full sequence of events.

Beyond the investigation, the loss of Jody Clardy has deeply affected those who knew him. He was remembered in the community as a former paramedic with Medshore Ambulance Service, where he once dedicated his career to helping others during medical emergencies. Friends and colleagues described him as someone who spent years responding to crises, only to become the victim of one himself in a moment of devastating irony.

Residents across Anderson County have expressed sadness and frustration as details of the crash spread. Many noted that intersections like Highway 413 and Haynie Drive can be especially dangerous due to turning traffic and limited reaction time for oncoming vehicles. Motorcyclists in particular face heightened risks in such conditions, where even a brief miscalculation can result in catastrophic consequences.

As the investigation continues, authorities have not indicated whether additional charges may be considered. Officials emphasized that the case remains active and that all evidence is being carefully reviewed. Law enforcement agencies involved in the response are working together to ensure a complete and accurate reconstruction of how the crash unfolded early Friday morning.

For family, friends, and former coworkers, the focus now shifts to remembering a man who spent much of his life serving others. The loss of Joseph “Jody” Clardy Jr. has left a lasting impact on the Anderson County community, where he is being honored not only for how he died, but for the years he dedicated to saving lives before his own was tragically taken on the highway he once traveled.