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COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) — Two Walterboro convenience stores and their owners are now facing legal action from two families who claim the alcohol the stores sold to a teen led to the death of their loved one.

Hunter Williams, 19, is charged with felony DUI involving death and felony DUI causing great bodily harm. This accident in September 2024 took the life of Emma Lake, 9, and severely injured Lacy Wiggins, 10.

He is also facing two additional charges of purchasing alcohol as a minor.

Williams was denied bond during his original hearing in October 2024 and was denied bond again the following March. This came after a judge ruled that “nothing had changed,” even after he had a psychological evaluation.

The families have also filed a wrongful death suit.

Now, the two stores accused of selling Williams that alcohol are involved, after attorney Mark Tinsley filed civil suits against them on behalf of both families.

“People recognize when there’s a place in town that is known for the place where underage kids can buy alcohol,” Tinsley said. “...I would like to think that that is becoming a thing of the past. ... But unfortunately, they still exist.”

Tinsley says Sidney’s Road Convenience Store on Sidney’s Road and SV Mart #2 on North Jefferies Boulevard in Walterboro are two of those places.

“I hope they all get put out of business,” Tinsley said. “I don’t think there’s a fine steep enough. I don’t think that there’s monetary sanction high enough that anybody would trade places with the Lake family.”

The filing states the employees failed to verify his age and check his ID before selling the alcohol. It also claims the defendants “acted in accordance and as part of a corporate plan to knowingly sell alcohol to underage people.”

Tinsley says the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division was able to obtain video showing Williams in those stores purchasing the alcohol that night.

Emma Lake’s mother, Tamara Lake, says driving drunk is a choice.

“As a result of Emma’s death, I really hope that all business owners can take from this how important it is to follow all of the rules and obey laws in regards to selling minors alcohol,” Lake said. “It’s very, very important to do it the right way to avoid more tragedy.”

The intersection where Pleasant Grove Road meets Jefferies Highway, where the deadly crash happened, has also been dedicated in Emma Lake’s name.

“It helps me to know that Emma can still make a difference,” Lake said. “That all of this was not for nothing. And that Emma can have a purpose. And make her death meaningful instead of just a terrible, terrible tragedy to have to live through.”

Defense attorney Scott Bischoff, who represents Williams, did not want to comment at this time.

Defense attorney Michael Trask, who represents some of the other defendants, also did not want to comment. Another attorney, Cordes Kennedy, did not respond.

“This is mainly about making the world a better place,” Tinsley said. “A safer place.”

Williams remains in custody at the Colleton County Detention Center.

Walterboro, a hidden gem known to locals, lies 50 miles from Charleston and makes a great location for a long weekend getaway. Aside from offering loads of history and charm, Walterboro is also exceptionally hospitable. The town’s residents love sitting down with visitors over a cup of sweet tea to tell them all about their beautiful home. This place was once a summer retreat for agriculturists and farmers, including the Walter brothers, who eventually settled in Hickory Pine. Walterboro was named for them, and today you can enjoy the historic downtown and museum and experience the renowned hospitality for yourself in this popular town.

The Town That Gathers Together

To get the first-hand hospitality experience, time your visit to coincide with the annual Colleton County Rice Festival. In 2026, the event will be held between April 24 and 25 in downtown Walterboro. Expect arts and crafts, a queen of the Rice Festival pageant, a fun parade, and a 5K run. The festival includes fireworks and great food. While you are downtown, you can also visit the Colleton Museum and Farmers Market, where you can buy fresh produce and excellent locally produced honey and mingle with residents.

Shopping in Downtown Walterboro

Walterboro is a small town with around 5,500 residents, but it is very big on Southern shopping. There are several downtown shops where you will find everyday items, gifts, and delicious food. Twig sells home décor and gifts that make perfect mementos from your trip. If you want more options, head over to Downtown Envy, which consists of four buildings with more than 50 vendors. If you love antiques and vintage items, you will easily spend several hours here.

At the Golden Daffodil, there are more antiques for sale, and at the South Carolina Artisans Center, you can peruse the art of more than 300 of the state's best artists. At first glance, you might think you are in an art gallery, but the center is a retailer that offers visitors and locals the opportunity to buy artwork and unique décor. In all of these downtown shops, you will find friendly staff ready to help you find what you are looking for.

Where to Eat in Walterboro

If you get hungry while exploring Walterboro, your first stop should be Olde House Café for warm Southern hospitality and authentic Southern cuisine. The Café is well-known for its homemade buffet, which includes fried chicken, brisket, banana pudding, and cobbler. The portions are generous and the servers attentive and welcoming. If you need comfort food or a nostalgic treat, try the homemade macaroni and cheese. If you are in the mood for seafood or a scrumptious steak, stop by Fat Jack’s for a great meal and top it off with an even better cocktail.

Going Beyond Downtown

There is much more to see and experience in Walterboro beyond the downtown shops and restaurants. At the Walterboro Wildlife Center, you can explore an interpretive exhibit hall featuring displays on local plant and animal life. Or you can go on a nature tour at the Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge, forty minutes away from downtown Walterboro. This refuge was established to protect the undeveloped estuary along the Atlantic Coast.

The Bear Island Wildlife Sanctuary is also about 40 minutes from downtown and offers one of the best bird-watching areas in the state. There are several miles of dikes here, as well as two observation decks from where you can watch the wildlife. At the Donnelley Wildlife Area, you can see more wildlife and enjoy a picnic as you look out of the marsh and wetlands. There are also two hiking trails and several miles of dirt road for bicyclists. You can even go kayaking or canoeing on the Edisto River, around 20 minutes away from town.

More Outdoor Fun and Adventure

If you want to go camping, head to Colleton State Park, only eighteen minutes north of Walterboro. The park spans 35 acres and is the smallest state park in the state. You have access to the river within the park, as well as ample space for RVs and tents. You can also hike inside the park on the Cypress Swamp Nature Trail. This trail leads through a wetland where you can see various species of fish, birds, and reptiles. After your hike, you can relax on the river shore and fish for catfish and bream. Keep in mind you need a valid SC fishing license.

If you want to stay close to downtown Walterboro, you can spend a couple of hours in Gladys Whiddon Park, which features a playground and plenty of green spaces. You can even feed the ducks and geese. When you have had your fill of outdoor fun, you can catch a new release at Ivanhoe Family Cinemas on Ivanhoe Road.

Nearby Towns to Explore

More hospitality awaits in the small Lowcountry town of Yemassee, around twenty miles away from Walterboro. Yemassee is tiny but has a fascinating history and boasts rural Southern character. A must-see is the nearby old Sheldon Church Ruins. This striking 18th-century Greek Revival site sits among old oak trees, providing an ideal backdrop for photographers. You can also learn more about the town’s history at the Frampton Plantation and Auldbrass Plantation, ten minutes away from town.

Around an hour drive away lies Moncks Corner, a welcoming town known as the gateway to outdoor adventure in the Santee Cooper region. Its top attractions include Cypress Gardens and Old Santee Canal Park, which is the country’s oldest canal system. The gardens comprise a 195-acre botanical and wildlife preserve with swamp trails and boardwalks, as well as a Butterfly House. The gardens were also a filming location for the film The Notebook.

A Hearty Southern Welcome Awaits in Walterboro

Walterboro is much more than an overnight stop between larger cities. It is an excellent small-town destination where you will find the best of Southern hospitality. Whether you want to explore historic buildings or have a fun couple of days outdoors in nature, there are friendly locals around every corner to guide you to the best places to see and experience. Walterboro is a fantastic getaway from the rush of everyday life, and once there, you will find yourself surrounded by a community built on kindness and warmth. Walterboro is always ready to welcome travelers and visitors with open arms.