Nurse heading to work killed in 3-vehicle crash

FLORENCE COUNTY, S.C. (WMBF/Gray News) - A nurse who was on her way to work was killed in a crash, according to the coroner.

Florence County Coroner Keith von Lutcken said 50-year-old Michelle Bandola was heading to work on Friday morning at MUSC Health Florence when she was involved in a three-car crash.

“Honestly I don’t know what to do now that she’s gone,” her daughter Jhiryanne Bandola said.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol said a 2006 Lexus SUV crossed the center line and collided with a 2023 GMC pickup truck and a 2022 Kia Rio at Freedom Boulevard and Wallace Road. The accident left tire marks and gouges in the asphalt that were observed days later.

Michelle Bandola later died at a hospital, according to authorities.

Jhiryanne Bandola said she talked to her mother the day before the crash and also called her on Friday, but she did not answer.

“She didn’t pick up, so I thought, ‘Something is probably wrong,’” Jhiryanne Bandola said. “They told me that she’s, she’s gone.”

Michelle Bandola’s patients and co-workers are also distraught about her death. They said she was a light in their lives.

Fellow nurse Lisa Hardee said her heart dropped when she heard the news.

“I was like, ‘Oh my God, no.’ I was just shocked. She was well-liked. She was nice, just a good all-around person,” she said.

Many said they will always remember Michelle Bandola as caring, adventurous and big-hearted. Those closest to her also said she was an animal lover and had six dogs. She bonded with many over her love of German shepherds.

On Tuesday, Hardee wore a German shepherd name clip in Michelle Bandola’s honor. Hardee said Michelle Bandola gave it to her as a gift.

As Michelle Bandola’s loved ones grieve, her daughter said she will cling to her memories.

“I just think that this is a nightmare, but I know that it’s not and this is actually happening. She just didn’t prepare me for a life that didn’t have her in it, you know? She prepared for everything, else, but just not this,” Jhiryanne Bandola said.

MUSC Health Florence said the staff is “heartbroken.”

“MUSC is heartbroken to learn of the untimely and tragic passing of Michelle Bandola, a nurse with our MUSC Florence hospital team. We extend our condolences to her family, work family and loved ones. She will be missed by her patients and colleagues,” said Jay Hinesley, CEO of MUSC Health Florence.

Two others were hurt in the crash, but their condition is unknown.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday afternoon.

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