Belton, SC — Community Mourns the Loss of 15-Year-Old Vance Kanter Schmidt in Tragic Crash

Belton, SC — Community Mourns the Loss of 15-Year-Old Vance Kanter Schmidt in Tragic Crash

The tight-knit community of Belton, South Carolina, is grieving the untimely death of Vance Kanter Schmidt, a 15-year-old local teen who tragically lost his life in a single-vehicle accident on Monday, June 2, 2025.

Details of the Incident

According to the Anderson County Office of the Coroner, emergency services were dispatched to West Road, just outside Belton’s city limits, at approximately 12:50 p.m. following reports of a truck colliding with a tree. Upon arrival, first responders found that Schmidt, the sole occupant of the vehicle, had succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Schmidt was driving a 1997 Dodge Ram when he veered off the right side of the road. In an attempt to correct the vehicle’s path, he overcompensated, causing the truck to cross the roadway and strike a tree. The impact proved fatal.

Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Belton Fire Department, Anderson County EMS, Medshore Ambulance Service, Belton Police Department, Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Carolina Highway Patrol. The incident remains under investigation to determine the exact cause and contributing factors.

Remembering Vance

Vance Kanter Schmidt was known among his peers and community members as a vibrant and kind-hearted individual. His sudden passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him. Friends, family, and community members have expressed their condolences and shared memories, highlighting the positive impact Vance had during his short life.

Community Support

In the wake of this tragedy, the Belton community has come together to support the Schmidt family. Local organizations and residents are offering assistance and organizing memorials to honor Vance’s memory. Counseling services are also being made available to students and community members affected by this loss.

Ongoing Investigation

The South Carolina Highway Patrol, in conjunction with the Anderson County Office of the Coroner, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward to assist in the investigation.

As the community mourns, the focus remains on supporting the Schmidt family and honoring the life of a young individual taken too soon.