The community is mourning the tragic loss of Rafael B. Veloz, 34, of Buford, Georgia, who was killed in a devastating multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 85 on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
Rafael was driving a 2013 Honda sedan northbound when a 2016 Freightliner tractor-trailer rear-ended his vehicle near Exit 2 in Oconee County. The collision caused a chain reaction, involving multiple vehicles, including three Chevrolet pickups. His car became trapped between vehicles, and despite emergency responders’ efforts to extricate him, Rafael was pronounced deceased at the scene at 7:10 a.m. His sudden passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him.
Three other drivers sustained injuries in the crash and were transported to area hospitals. The driver of the tractor-trailer was unharmed. The crash remains under investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol.
Rafael will be remembered as a loving son, a devoted friend, and a kind soul whose presence brought warmth and light to those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
May he rest in peace.
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