Spring Valley High School student dies in single-car crash

A 17-year-old Spring Valley High School student died in a traffic crash Thursday on Alpine Road north of Columbia when his car struck a pole, according to the Richland County coroner’s office.

The teen was identified as Matthew R. Putnam of Columbia, the coroner’s office said in a news release.

The crash took place when Putnam’s vehicle, a 2006 Ford Mustang, was attempting to pass another vehicle, ran off the road and struck a pole, according to S.C. Highway Patrol Master Trooper Brandon Bolt.

The patrol is continuing to investigate, Bolt said.

Officials did not say where on Alpine Road the incident occurred.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with this family over their devastating loss,” Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford said.