ARMUCHEE, Ga. — Doctors at Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center fought tirelessly through Tuesday night to save 15-year-old David Clemones, but the injuries he sustained in a head-on collision proved too severe. Clemones, a student and football player at Armuchee High School, tragically lost his life in an accident that has left the community in mourning.
The crash occurred around 6:10 p.m. as Clemones was riding home from practice with two teammates. Their red Chevrolet pickup collided with a Dodge Ram during a left turn attempt at the intersection of Calhoun Road and Georgia Loop 1, transforming what should have been a routine ride home into a devastating tragedy.
The 16-year-old driver of the Chevrolet, whose identity remains protected due to his age, suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while a third passenger in the vehicle also sustained injuries. The driver of the Dodge Ram, 56-year-old Matthew Mathis of Rome, was hospitalized for treatment as well. Floyd County investigators determined that the left turn by the Chevrolet was the cause of the collision, but no charges have been filed against the teenage driver at this time.
Friends and teammates remember Clemones as a bright, energetic presence. One teammate said he “always had a smile on his face” and brought enthusiasm to every practice. Coaches and classmates alike described him as someone who could lift spirits, both on and off the field.
The tragedy has shaken the Armuchee community deeply, as residents, students, and faculty come to terms with the loss of a young life full of promise. Vigils and memorials are being planned to honor Clemones’ memory and provide support for his grieving family, teammates, and friends.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash to ensure a full understanding of the events leading to the accident. Meanwhile, the focus remains on supporting the families affected and promoting safe driving awareness among local teenagers.
Our hearts go out to the Clemones family, the injured passengers, and all members of the Armuchee community who are grappling with this heartbreaking loss.
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