Executive Summary
- A fatal crash occurred early Dec. 25 at Barnett Shoals and Gaines School roads.
- A speeding 2018 Toyota Camry struck a tree and caught fire, killing the driver.
- This incident marks the 13th traffic fatality in Athens-Clarke County for 2025.
- ACCPD is actively investigating and requesting witness information.
A driver was pronounced dead at the scene early morning on December 25 following a high-speed single-vehicle collision in Athens-Clarke County, Georgia, according to local law enforcement authorities.
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD) reported that officers responded to the intersection of Barnett Shoals and Gaines School roads regarding the incident. Preliminary findings indicate that a 2018 Toyota Camry was traveling southbound on Barnett Shoals Road at a high rate of speed before entering the intersection.
According to the police report, the vehicle subsequently veered into the Synovus Bank parking lot where it struck a tree. The force of the impact caused the sedan to become engulfed in flames. Police stated that the driver died at the location. While investigators have a tentative identification of the victim, the name has not been publicly released.
Traffic Safety and Investigative Status
This incident marks the ninth fatal crash and the 13th traffic-related death recorded in Athens-Clarke County during 2025, highlighting ongoing challenges in roadway safety. The investigation remains active as authorities work to finalize the identification and determine all contributing factors. The Athens-Clarke County Police Department has requested that anyone with information regarding the collision contact traffic investigators directly.
