2 South Carolina Patients Die After Transport Van Is Submerged

Two mental health patients being transported between facilities in South Carolina died after the van they were being transported in was overcome by flood waters from Florence, according to multiple reports.

Marion County coroner Jerry Richardson told The New York Times that the deputy driving the van lost control in the high waters. The van became submerged as it was headed west Tuesday evening on Highway 76 into Marion County, WPDE reported.

The two patients were being transported between facilities by the Horry County Sheriff's Office. WPDE reported that the two victims were identified as Wendy Wenton, of Shallotte and Nicolette Green, of Myrtle Beach.

According to a statement from the Horry County Sheriff's provided to WPDE, the two detainees were being taken from Conway to Darlington. The van was about half a mile from the Little Pee Dee River when it became overcome by flood waters.

In the statement to WPDE, the sheriff's office said two deputies attempted to extricate the persons being transported.

"Despite persistent and ongoing efforts, floodwater rose rapidly and the deputies were unable to open the doors to reach the individuals inside the van," the statement said.

The deputies were rescued by high water teams from the top of the van. The incident is being investigated by the State Law Enforcement Division.

The Horry County Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond to a request for information.

Photo: A truck drives through floodwaters after Hurricane Florence struck the Carolinas, Monday, Sept. 17, 2018, near Conway, S.C. Photo by Sean Rayford/Associated Press