Emergency responders work at the accident scene where a tragic incident occurred, impacting the local community.
A tragic accident in Augusta resulted in the death of eight-year-old Camden Poole and the arrest of Lee Earnest Jones Jr. on charges of misdemeanor vehicular homicide and failure to yield. The collision occurred at the intersection of Peach Orchard Road and Tobacco Road when Jones made a left turn as the traffic light changed. Witnesses report confusion over the right-of-way, and the community grieves the loss of Camden, who died shortly after being transported to the hospital. A GoFundMe campaign has raised nearly $15,000 for the family amidst their sorrow.
Augusta, GA – A tragic accident on Monday afternoon led to the death of eight-year-old Camden Poole, resulting in the arrest of 49-year-old Lee Earnest Jones Jr. Jones has been charged with misdemeanor vehicular homicide and failure to yield after the crash that occurred at approximately 1:04 p.m. at the intersection of Peach Orchard Road and Tobacco Road.
The incident unfolded when Camden was seated in the back of a vehicle driven by his mother, Kayla Poole. The family was traveling northbound when their Hyundai Elantra collided with Jones’s Chevrolet pickup truck, which was making a left turn. Surveillance footage from a nearby auto repair shop captured crucial moments before the collision, showing vehicles in the southbound left-turn lane beginning their turns as the traffic light changed from green to yellow.
According to investigators, Jones’s truck entered the intersection under a yellow light, but the light turned red just as he began his turn, crossing in front of Poole’s vehicle. Witnesses reported seeing both traffic lights green prior to the crash, with southbound motorists proceeding through the intersection, corroborating that the situation at that moment was complex regarding right-of-way.
The resulting impact from the collision was severe, causing both vehicles to spin and come to a stop at different angles near the intersection. Camden Poole suffered critical injuries and was transported to Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased at 1:50 p.m. The loss has sent waves of grief through the community, especially since the accident coincided with Camden’s birthday.
In the aftermath of the crash, both drivers initially claimed that they believed they had the right of way. Jones maintained that he was following the vehicles ahead of him under the impression that the signal was still green, while Kayla Poole stated she had entered the intersection on a yellow light. This inconsistency is central to the ongoing investigation.
Following the accident, the families involved have expressed profound sorrow. Jones and his wife have publicly conveyed their condolences to Camden’s family, reflecting on the heart-wrenching implications of losing a child, especially on a day meant for celebration. They have also expressed gratitude toward the community for their support during this tragic time.
To assist with the funeral and medical expenses incurred due to the tragedy, Camden’s grandmother initiated a GoFundMe campaign, which successfully raised nearly $15,000 by Friday evening. This outpouring of support illustrates the impact Camden’s death has had on the local community and demonstrates their solidarity during this painful period.
Lee Earnest Jones Jr. has a concerning history behind the wheel, with multiple DUI convictions dating back to 2003. His record includes several related driving offenses, raising questions about his driving behavior prior to the accident.
This incident highlights the tragic consequences that can result from traffic accidents and the ongoing discussions surrounding road safety. As investigations continue, the community remains focused on healing from this unexpected loss.
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