News Summary
The community of Augusta gathered for the Action Rally for the CSRA, aiming to foster peace and youth support following the tragic deaths of local residents. Led by Dr. Rev. Larry Fryer, participants emphasized the importance of collective prayer, with events held despite weather conditions. The rally memorialized Gordon Carmichael and Augusta Hill, highlighting community solidarity and resilience. Local churches and schools joined in supporting the families, showcasing the depth of connections within Augusta during these challenging times.
Augusta – The local community came together on August 7, 2025, for a prayer event called the Action Rally for the CSRA, aimed at promoting peace, protection, and support for youth following two tragic accidents involving local residents. The event took place at 6 p.m. at 1755 Gordon Highway, the site of the former Winn-Dixie plaza, and was co-hosted by The Monroe Foundation and the Martin Luther King Jr. Strength and Unity Foundation.
Under the leadership of Dr. Rev. Larry Fryer, the rally emphasized the importance of collective prayer and action, encouraging participation from all community members. Organizers stressed the belief that each individual’s presence and prayers are crucial during such difficult times, making it clear that the event was to be held regardless of weather conditions, inviting attendees to come “rain or shine.”
The rally served as a poignant memorial for 15-year-old Gordon Carmichael, a Greenbrier High School student who tragically died in a single-vehicle accident earlier that week. The accident occurred around 4:30 a.m. on Riverwood Parkway and Amberley Drive in Evans, GA, and Gordon’s mother had reported him missing shortly before discovering the news of the accident. Although no one else was injured in the crash, investigations are ongoing to determine its cause. In the wake of the tragedy, Greenbrier High School canceled all athletic events for that day, reflecting the community’s grief.
In a show of support, Journey Community Church hosted a prayer service on the evening of the crash. On the following morning, students gathered at the school flagpole for a heartfelt prayer session. Friends and classmates of Gordon created memorial tributes at the crash site, leaving flowers, stickers, and heartfelt notes. Gordon was remembered as a lively and humorous individual who was deeply loved by his peers.
In addition to honoring Gordon, a separate vigil was organized for 29-year-old Augusta Hill, who lost her life in a car collision in Wilkes County, while driving with her two children. Augusta died at the scene of the accident. Her daughter, Jacee, sustained critical injuries, and her son suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Community members rallied around the family, wearing yellow, Augusta and Jacee’s favorite color, during the vigil to show their support.
A social media page titled “Jacee Girl Strong” has been created to share updates on Jacee’s recovery, reflecting the community’s commitment to supporting the family during this challenging time. A GoFundMe page has also been set up to assist with Jacee’s medical expenses in light of the emergency she is facing.
The dual events brought the community of Augusta and the CSRA region together in solidarity and mourning, illustrating the strength and resilience of local residents in the face of tragedy. The emphasis on youth safety, community support, and the importance of prayer highlights the deep connections within this community as they navigate these painful experiences together.
As the community continues to process the losses of both Gordon Carmichael and Augusta Hill, the gatherings serve as vital spaces for healing, remembrance, and hope for the future.
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Additional Resources
- WFXG: Action Rally for the CSRA
- Spectrum Local News: Multifaith Prayer Service
- WRDW: Community Mourns 15-Year-Old
- WJBF: Local Church Hosts Prayer Service
- WXII12: Prayer Vigil Following Fatal Crash
- Wikipedia: Prayer
- Google Search: Community Prayer Events
- Google Scholar: Community Support After Tragedy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- Google News: Prayer Vigil
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
