On August 31, 2025, at 6:34 AM, a Trooper was dispatched to investigate a vehicle crash that occurred on Georgia Highway 61, near Ryles Road, in Bartow County. The crash involved a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado. The driver was traveling south on Georgia Highway 61 and failed to maintain his lane. This caused the Silverado to leave the roadway and travel onto the east shoulder. The Silverado struck the embankment, causing the driver to lose control and overturn. The driver was ejected from the vehicle during the crash. The Silverado came to a final rest in the northbound lane, on its top. Due to the lighting conditions and a cloud of smoke from the crash, three motorcycle riders traveling north on Georgia Highway 61 did not see the disabled truck in the road and struck the Silverado on its side and front end. The passenger of the Silverado succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The driver of the Silverado was transported to Kennestone Hospital via helicopter. The three motorcycle riders were transported to Piedmont Medical Center via ambulance.
SCRTA is assisting with the investigation. Georgia Highway 61 was shut down for approximately four hours.
Press Release