Autopsy reveals 23-year-old missing Sumter woman’s cause of death

An autopsy performed on Wednesday revealed a 23-year-old Sumter woman’s cause of death was from a hit-and-run.

The autopsy, performed by the Medical University of South Carolina, revealed that Rebecca Brown, of Sumter, was the victim of a suspected pedestrian vs. vehicle accident, according to Sumter County Coroner Robbie Baker.

Brown was found by a passerby on South Guignard Drive in a grassy ditch about 20 yards from the road on Tuesday, Baker said. She had multiple blunt force injuries due to impact by a motor vehicle.

She was reported missing after last being seen out with friends on March 17 when she walked away from the Sumter Stop, a gas station on South Guignard Drive.

Next of kin has been notified, Baker said.

According to Tonyia McGirt, public information officer for the Sumter Police Department, it is unknown whether the hit-and-run was accidental, but an investigation is continuing.

Police are asking for information from the public as the investigation continues.

Anyone who may have struck something or may have seen something that night in an area south of Palmetto Street on South Guignard Drive is asked to contact the Sumter Police Department at (803) 436-2700. Information can also be given anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.