Athens, Georgia – A tragic accident on Tuesday morning claimed the life of a pedestrian near the intersection of W. Broad Street and Old Epps Bridge Road. The incident occurred around 7 a.m., as confirmed by the Athens-Clarke County Police. It marks the first fatal traffic accident in Athens-Clarke County this year.
Emergency medical services arrived promptly at the scene and worked to save the life of the victim, later identified as 63-year-old Joseph Buckles of Athens. Despite their efforts, Buckles was pronounced dead at the scene. His passing has left the Athens community grieving the loss of a long-time resident.
The driver involved in the accident, a 21-year-old from Lawrenceville, was uninjured. Authorities have not yet released the driver’s identity or details about the events leading up to the collision. Police are asking for the public’s help in providing any additional information about the crash.
Senior Police Officer James Trotter, who is leading the investigation, encourages witnesses or anyone with information to reach out. Individuals can contact him via email at James.Trotter@accgov.com or by calling 762-400-7326. Investigators are working to determine the exact cause of the incident and whether factors such as speed, visibility, or road conditions played a role.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety for drivers and pedestrians alike. Early morning hours can pose additional risks due to reduced visibility and increased commuter activity. Police are urging both motorists and pedestrians to exercise extra caution to prevent similar accidents.
As the investigation continues, the Athens community is left to mourn the loss of Joseph Buckles while seeking answers about the circumstances of the collision. Authorities hope that witness accounts and forensic evidence will shed light on what happened. In the meantime, the local community reflects on the fragility of life and the shared responsibility for safety on the roads.