In the pre-dawn hours on May 7, 2023, what at first seemed like a sorrowful incident of hit-and-run in Greenwood, South Carolina, evolved into a disturbing story of deliberate aggression. When officials arrived after receiving a report of an apparent car accident, they found the deceased body of 46-year-old Davis McClendon close to a wrecked BMW sedan on an isolated road. What started as a standard probe into a vehicular accident soon transformed into an investigation rooted in envy, fixation, and homicide.
Detectives at the location observed unusual elements that diverged from what is expected in a typical hit-and-run incident. The car’s damage did not match that of a standard collision, and an oil trail departing from the location suggested something much more malevolent. Through forensic evidence and accounts from witnesses, suspicion quickly fell upon one individual: William “Bud” Ackerman, the separated husband of McClendon’s partner, Meredith Haynie.
McClendon, a devoted father and cherished figure in his community, was portrayed as compassionate and caring by those who knew him. He was a person who made a significant impact on all who crossed his path. His untimely passing stunned his friends and family, who found it difficult to comprehend how a life with so much potential could end so violently.
McClendon, a father and beloved member of his community, was described as empathetic and kind by his friends and family. He was someone who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His tragic death shocked his loved ones, who struggled to process how such a promising life could be cut short in such a brutal manner.
A tragic love triangle
The events leading up to McClendon’s death were rooted in a love story that turned toxic. McClendon had been dating Meredith Haynie, a 39-year-old schoolteacher and mother of three who had recently separated from her husband of 10 years, Bud Ackerman. Haynie described McClendon as a source of joy and stability during a difficult time in her life. Their relationship, however, became the catalyst for escalating tension with Ackerman.
Upon discovering Haynie’s new romantic involvement with McClendon, jealousy consumed Ackerman. In the days preceding the tragedy, Ackerman allegedly bombarded Haynie with numerous texts and persistent calls, conveying his irritation and rage. On the evening when McClendon lost his life, Ackerman was reportedly monitoring the couple’s activities, resolute in his pursuit to locate them.
The inquiry progresses
Initially, officials assumed McClendon had been hit by a passing vehicle while he was outside his car. Nevertheless, a more detailed inspection of the site triggered suspicions. An oil trail starting at the crash location directed investigators to the residence of Ackerman’s parents, where he had been living following his split from Haynie. At that location, deputies discovered Ackerman’s white Ford F-250 pickup truck, which showed evident damage to the front grille and had oil dripping from its underside.
Digital evidence extracted from the truck’s advanced “infotainment system” provided indicative insights. The system logged Ackerman’s driving behavior, revealing that his vehicle had been present at the crash site at the precise moment of the incident. The data also showed that Ackerman had suddenly applied the brakes just before the impact, implying he knew McClendon was on the road.
Eyewitness accounts further tied Ackerman to the incident. Haynie disclosed that McClendon had departed from their date earlier that night to confront Ackerman, who had been bombarding her with calls and texts. Surveillance video captured Ackerman repeatedly driving around the parking area of a nearby eatery where the couple had dined, seemingly trying to find them.
An intentional deed or an unfortunate mishap?
The prosecution contended that Ackerman’s conduct was intentional and driven by jealousy. They asserted he employed his truck as a weapon, deliberately aiming at McClendon during their altercation. The trial featured evidence such as surveillance video, witness testimonies, and forensic findings from the truck, all of which portrayed a condemning portrayal of Ackerman’s actions that evening.
Ackerman’s defense team, on the other hand, contended that the crash was unintentional. They claimed Ackerman was on his way to talk with McClendon and only noticed him on the dark roadway when it was too late. They emphasized the poor visibility and the brief moment Ackerman had to respond, suggesting he tried to steer clear of McClendon but accidentally hit him.
Despite these assertions, Ackerman’s choice to leave the scene and not contact 911 brought his intentions into question. Prosecutors contended that his behavior following the crash reflected a blatant absence of remorse and an effort to conceal the crime.
Despite these claims, Ackerman’s decision to flee the scene and his failure to call 911 raised questions about his intentions. Prosecutors alleged that his actions after the collision demonstrated a clear lack of remorse and an attempt to cover up the crime.
In September 2024, it took the jury under 30 minutes to reach a unanimous decision of guilt. Ackerman was found guilty of murder and received a 45-year prison sentence. The prompt verdict provided a sense of relief to McClendon’s family and friends, who had been awaiting justice for more than a year.
For Haynie, the trial signified the conclusion of a distressing period in her life. She expressed thankfulness for the verdict, describing it as an essential step towards recovery. Nonetheless, she also recognized the enduring effect of McClendon’s passing on her and her children.
“Davis saved my life,” Haynie remarked as she looked back on that fateful night. She holds the view that Ackerman’s jealousy might have made her the victim, had McClendon not stepped in.
“Davis saved my life,” Haynie said, reflecting on the events of that night. She believes Ackerman’s jealousy could have led to her being the target, had McClendon not intervened.
McClendon’s passing created a deep absence in the lives of those familiar with him. Friends portrayed him as a “people person” who consistently supported others. His compassion and commitment as a father and friend were remembered during the trial, as his loved ones endeavored to pay tribute to his memory.
The case highlighted the perils of domestic conflicts and the tragic outcomes of unchecked jealousy. Advocacy organizations have utilized McClendon’s story to emphasize the need to address unhealthy relationships and identify warning signs before they escalate into violence.
Looking ahead
Although Ackerman’s conviction offers some sense of closure, the consequences of his actions will probably be experienced for many years. For Haynie and her children, the task of reconstructing their lives continues to be a persistent challenge. They have since left Greenwood, seeking peace and stability.
As the community reflects on McClendon as someone who personified compassion and love, his tragic passing highlights the necessity of justice and responsibility. His story stands as both a warning and a prompt for action to avert similar tragedies in the future.
As the community remembers McClendon as a man who embodied empathy and love, his tragic death underscores the importance of justice and accountability. His story serves as both a cautionary tale and a call to action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Ackerman, who will not be eligible for parole until 2068, has filed an appeal against his conviction. However, for McClendon’s family and friends, the jury’s verdict stands as a testament to the pursuit of truth and the unwavering demand for justice.
