GORDON COUNTY – The Georgia State Patrol (GSP) has released preliminary findings into a deadly crash that occurred Saturday afternoon, August 23, on Highway 53 in Gordon County.
According to GSP, the incident began around 2:39 p.m. when Gordon County deputies initiated a pursuit of a black Mercedes traveling at a high rate of speed. Troopers were called in to assist.
As the chase reached the intersection of GA 53 (South Calhoun Bypass) and GA 53 Spur, the suspect attempted to make a right turn but was unable to negotiate the curve. The Mercedes crossed the median into the westbound lanes of GA 53 Spur, where troopers were approaching, though GSP confirmed no contact was made between patrol vehicles and the suspect’s car.
The suspect continued driving eastbound in the westbound lanes before colliding head-on with a Honda CR-V at the intersection of Reeves Station Road. Both vehicles caught fire upon impact.
Deputies and troopers worked quickly to pull the suspect and victims from the burning vehicles.
The driver of the Honda, a 35-year-old woman, and her 9-year-old male passenger were airlifted by Life Force with serious injuries. A 49-year-old man, who was riding in the front passenger seat of the Honda, died at the scene. The suspect driver was also flown to a medical center with serious injuries.
Highway 53 was fully closed from 2:44 p.m. until 3:41 p.m., while westbound lanes remained shut down until 5:43 p.m. The Georgia State Patrol’s Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team (SCRT) is investigating the crash.