SUMMERTON, S.C. — A Clarendon County community continues to mourn the loss of its mayor, Tony Junious. He died in a car crash on Saturday.
"Everybody loved him; everybody knew him," community member Isaac Pringle said.
Mayor Junious was known as a trailblazer in Summerton. He made history by becoming the first Black mayor of the town.
"Just seen him. Very beautiful, humble person, the best person," Pringle said. "The first Black mayor we had right here in Summerton South Carolina," Pringle said.
Community members remembered him for not only his win but his dedication.
"That time he instructed me about vote without going to the booth for the mail order thing, he gave me instructions on that," Jacob Rhames, a resident of Summerton, said.
"It's a big loss; we're humbled," Pringle said.
Local businesses posted signs in town extending condolences for Junious's family. The town released a statement that read in part that they were "shocked and saddened" by the mayor's death. Junious dedicated his life to public service.
"His love for the Town of Summerton was constantly on display," the town's Facebook said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Junious family during this difficult time."
Even beyond the town limits, community members were shocked by the loss.
"It's a small town. You know, people kind of know each other, and I live outside of town. You know, it's still a bit of a shock he was the new mayor. That's terrible," John Brailsford said.
No funeral arrangements have been announced yet.