Tragic ATV Accident Claims Lives of Two Cousins in Orangeburg County
Heartbreak and tragedy struck Orangeburg County over the weekend as a devastating ATV accident took the lives of two young cousins, 8-year-old Ania Chalk and 16-year-old Jada Fludd. The families of the girls are left shattered by the loss of these inseparable cousins who shared a special bond.
The accident occurred on Saturday on U.S. 601 near Scenic Drive, just north of Orangeburg. Reports indicate that the ATV, carrying Ania and Jada, attempted to cross the road and was struck by a 2024 Freightliner truck pulling a trailer. Tragically, both girls lost their lives in the collision.
Family members, such as Ania’s grandmother and Jada’s brother, Kareem Fludd, express the immense pain and devastation they are feeling. Kareem Fludd described the girls as his own, saying, “There was nothing I wouldn’t do for them, both of them, my niece, my sister, those are my girls. I love them.”
Yolanda Johnson, Ania’s grandmother and Jada’s cousin, shared that Saturday was meant to be a joyous day as they were preparing to celebrate Jada’s upcoming 17th birthday. However, the day took a tragic turn with the fatal accident.
The community plans to honor the memory of Ania and Jada with a balloon release on Tuesday evening at The First Church of God of Saint Matthews. Their funerals will be held on Sunday at Calhoun County High School, allowing loved ones to pay their final respects and say goodbye to these two young souls.
