Fatal hit-run victim was 91-year old North Carolinian

The victim of last night’s fatal accident in rural northern Oconee was a 91-year old Sapphire, North Carolina resident, who formerly lived in Walhalla.  Coroner Addis identified the deceased today as Charles Owens, an un-restrained driver of a 2000 Dodge pickup.  That pickup was knocked off the Whitewater Falls Road just before 7:30 last night and hit a tree.  Owens died at the scene.  The highway patrol this afternoon appeals to the public for information about what happened.  According to the patrol, an unknown vehicle headed west on 130, the Whitewater Falls Road, and hit Owens’ truck.  You can provide information by calling the patrol at 864/241-1000 or 1/800-768-1503.  Tips may be called also to Crimestoppers.