The Case of Davis McClendon: A Fatal Collision and Legal Battle

In the early hours of May 7, 2023, a tragic road accident unfolded on a quiet, dead-end street in Greenwood, South Carolina. Authorities were alerted just after 1 a.m. to an incident involving a vehicle, leading them to discover the lifeless body of 46-year-old Davis McClendon near the woods bordering the road. Distraught first responders confronted the scene, where they found McClendon’s shirt and shoe strewn on the pavement beside his severely damaged BMW 5 Series sedan.

Initial Investigation

Greenwood County Sheriff’s Investigator Patrick Durkin arrived promptly to assess the scene. Describing the extent of the damage, Durkin noted, “There was significant damage to the fender,” and remarked on the peculiar nature of the fender’s deformation which resembled a “torn back” state, rather than the typical damage seen in minor accidents. This led investigators to theorize whether McClendon had been struck while outside his vehicle.

Witness Accounts and Background

Authorities spoke to two women, Meredith Haynie and Megan McGovern, who had called 911 after the crash and shed light on McClendon’s last hours. Haynie, who was in a relationship with McClendon, noted that he had left a local club just prior to the incident, expressing his location to her over the phone. Their conversation, however, was cut short, prompting concern when McClendon failed to return to the line.

Friends of McClendon characterized him as a cherished personality, emphasizing his kindness and strong relationships. Zach Calhoun, one of his friends, described McClendon as someone who “loved BIG” and had no enemies.

A Disturbing Encounter

As the investigation deepened, Durkin discovered more clues, including oil slicks on the road hinting that another vehicle had been involved in the incident. The trail of oil led investigators to suspect potential involvement from Haynie’s estranged husband, Bud Ackerman, who had been living separately for nearly a year at the time.

The Arrest of Bud Ackerman

By 6:30 a.m. on May 7, authorities apprehended Bud Ackerman, taking note of his white Ford F-250 truck, which exhibited signs consistent with having been in an accident. Investigators found oil leaking from the vehicle’s undercarriage, coupled with damage that pointed towards a collision. Initially cooperative with police, Ackerman referred all inquiries to his attorney, raising suspicion about his potential involvement.

The Legal Proceedings

Charges against Ackerman escalated as evidence mounted. Digital forensics revealed that he had been tracking McClendon and Haynie’s whereabouts that night, raising significant questions about his intent. Surveillance footage captured critical moments leading up to the collision, including Ackerman’s truck being in the vicinity around the time of McClendon’s death.

Accusations of Intent

Prosecutors contended that Ackerman’s actions were deliberate, aiming to confront McClendon over his relationship with Haynie. They presented time-stamped videos and GPS data that placed Ackerman’s truck at the crash site moments before the incident occurred. The defense, however, argued that Ackerman acted without malice, claiming that the collision was accidental and that he had no intention to harm McClendon.

The Trial

The trial commenced with emotional testimonies from those who knew McClendon. The jury heard from Haynie, who testified about the paranoia she noticed in Ackerman before the accident and described his repeated, erratic messages that night. Prosecutors emphasized this part of his behavior as indicative of his state of mind at the time of the crash.

Verdict and Sentencing

The jury deliberated for less than 30 minutes before finding Bud Ackerman guilty of murder. The evidence presented proved compelling, showcasing a combination of digital footprints, eyewitness accounts, and physical evidence from the crime scene. Judge Donald Hocker sentenced Ackerman to 45 years in prison, emphasizing the severity of his crime.

Impact and Reflection

As the dust settled, friends and family of McClendon expressed their relief at the verdict, yet they also grappled with the tragedy of his loss. Haynie, reflecting on the incident, stated, “Davis saved my life,” highlighting how it was McClendon’s involvement that perhaps shielded her from potential harm.

Though a future without Davis McClendon looms over his loved ones, the resolution of the case against Ackerman has provided some degree of closure as the community grapples with the consequences of violence and loss. McClendon will be remembered for his empathy and kindness, attributes that endeared him to all who knew him.