Missing South Carolina Tow Operator Killed in Bridge Crash Found

The tow operator who was missing after a traffic crash on the Don Holt Bridge in Charleston, S.C., has been identified as William Ellis, 45, of North Charleston.

Ellis was assisting a motorist with a disabled vehicle on Wednesday. A Charleston County sheriff’s deputy was also at the scene. At approximately 9:50 a.m., a Ford-F-350 towing a trailer crashed into the deputy’s car, which then struck the other vehicles.

Authorities presume Ellis was thrown over the bridge in the impact. His body was found Thursday in the Cooper River near Daniel Island.

The deputy, identified as Mike Costanzo, received serious injuries. Information about the driver of the pickup has not been released.

Authorities from multiple law enforcement agencies and the Coast Guard had joined in the search for Ellis.

Ellis’ family has set up an online fundraiser  for funeral expenses. Friends describe Ellis as loyal and dedicated.