The Armuchee community is reeling after a devastating two-vehicle collision Tuesday evening that claimed the life of a 15-year-old student and left two others hospitalized. According to the Floyd County Police Department, the crash occurred around 6:10 p.m. at the intersection of Georgia Loop 1 and Calhoun Road, a busy corridor known for heavy traffic.

Authorities confirmed that David Clemones, a 15-year-old student-athlete at Armuchee High School, died from injuries sustained in the collision. Clemones was a passenger in a red Chevrolet pickup truck driven by a fellow student, a 16-year-old who has not yet been publicly identified due to his age.

The impact of the crash was severe. Police reports indicate that the 16-year-old driver attempted to make a left turn in front of another vehicle, a Dodge Ram driven by 56-year-old Matthew Mathis of Rome. The resulting collision caused significant damage to both vehicles and led to injuries for all involved.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene, and both the 16-year-old driver and Mathis were transported to Atrium Health Floyd for treatment. Officials confirmed that the teen driver sustained serious injuries but that his condition is not considered life-threatening. Mathis also suffered injuries, but reports indicate they are non-life-threatening as well.

Sadly, Clemones’ injuries proved fatal despite efforts to save him. His death has left classmates, teachers, and the broader Floyd County community heartbroken. School officials have described him as a bright, hardworking young man with a promising future, both academically and athletically.

“David was the kind of student who lifted others up,” one teacher said. “On the field and in the classroom, he gave his best. Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this unimaginable loss.”

Armuchee High School announced that grief counselors would be available to support students and staff in the coming days. The sudden loss of a young life has been deeply felt in the tight-knit school community, where Clemones was well known for his athleticism and friendly personality.

The Floyd County Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Preliminary findings suggest that the 16-year-old driver of the red pickup made a left-hand turn in front of Mathis’ vehicle, causing the collision. Authorities have stated that charges are pending against the teen driver, though no further details have been released at this time.

Traffic accidents remain one of the leading causes of death among teenagers in Georgia, and this tragic incident underscores the importance of driver awareness and caution, especially among young and inexperienced drivers. Local officials have emphasized the need for ongoing education and community support to help prevent similar tragedies.

Neighbors and friends have already begun organizing vigils to honor Clemones’ life, sharing memories of his kindness, humor, and dedication. Social media has been filled with tributes from classmates, teammates, and loved ones, many of whom described him as a role model and loyal friend.

As the investigation continues, the community is rallying around both the Clemones family and the other students involved. Messages of support and condolences have poured in, with many emphasizing the importance of unity in times of grief.

“An entire community is mourning the loss of David,” a school spokesperson said. “We ask for prayers and compassion for his family, as well as for the other young man recovering from his injuries.”

While answers about the crash may take time to emerge, what remains certain is that a promising young life was tragically cut short. The coming weeks will be difficult for the Armuchee community, but friends and neighbors are committed to honoring David Clemones’ memory and supporting those affected by the heartbreaking loss.