Jackson Man Dies from Injuries in Fiery Motorcycle Crash on Whiskey Road
Jackson, SC — The community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Austin William Zabilowicz, a 31-year-old Jackson resident who succumbed to devastating injuries sustained in a fiery motorcycle crash last month.
According to Aiken County Chief Deputy Coroner Eric Ramey, Zabilowicz passed away at 4:52 p.m. on Friday, June 21, 2025, at the Joseph M. Still Burn Unit at Doctor’s Hospital in Augusta. He had been hospitalized in critical condition since the early-morning crash on May 16.
The collision took place around 3:30 a.m. on Whiskey Road near Chukker Creek Road. Authorities report that Zabilowicz was riding a 2002 Harley-Davidson motorcycle when he struck the rear of a 2016 Hyundai sedan. The impact ignited the motorcycle, trapping Zabilowicz beneath the burning wreckage. He suffered severe burns covering more than 90% of his body.
Despite the grave nature of his injuries, Austin fought to survive. His brother, Josh Schack, shared frequent updates through a GoFundMe campaign, offering a glimpse into the difficult journey Austin and his family faced. In one emotional post, Schack wrote:
“On May 16th, my family’s life changed forever… By the grace of God, Austin survived the accident. He currently is on life support but each day his body gains strength and his outlook for survival becomes more promising.”
Austin endured multiple surgeries, weeks in intensive care, and immense physical trauma. His family, friends, and supporters rallied around him, praying for a recovery that ultimately would not come.
Austin Zabilowicz is remembered as a loyal son, a loving brother, and a man whose spirit burned brightly, even in the darkest of times. His courage in the face of unimaginable pain left a deep impact on everyone who knew his story.
His tragic passing has left a void in the Jackson community and beyond. While his life was cut short, his memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved him and followed his journey with hope and faith.
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