Coroner Identifies Fleeing Driver, Governor's Mansion Supervisor in Columbia Wreck

The Richland County Coroner's Office has released the names of two people killed in a three-vehicle wreck in downtown Columbia Friday morning.

The collision occurred around 12:30am at the intersection of Blossom and Huger streets. 

Coroner Gary Watts identified Shyborn K. Belton, 23, of Columbia, as the driver of a 2011 Hyundai that caused a three-vehicle collision after attempting to elude Cayce Department of Public Safey officers. 

Belton was traveling north on Blossom Street when he ran a red light and struck a Ford minivan driven by . 

Both Branch, of Columbia, and Belton died at the scene from multiple trauma, the coroner's office said. 

Three passengers in Belton’s vehicle were transported to Palmetto Richland Memorial in serious condition, Watts said. 

Branch was traveling alone. 

Branch supervised mansion staff and worked under three adminstations: Govs. Jim Hodges, Mark Sandford and Nikki Haley, according to a report from The State. 

Branch also helped arrange events at the Governor's Mansion. 

In a statement Friday, Haley said she and her family were "heartbroken and feel an incredible loss with Chamberlain's passing."

"Everyone who knew him loved him. His smile and laugh were contagious. He was a very special part of our family, and his gentle soul, good humor, and care will always be treasured memories for each of us. We ask that all South Carolinians lift up in prayer Chamberlain’s wife Cherisse and their three children during this difficult time."

The South Carolina Highway Patrol MAIT team is investigating the collision.