BANKS COUNTY, GA — A deadly storm swept through parts of Georgia this past weekend, claiming the life of a Carnesville man in a heartbreaking accident. The Georgia State Patrol confirmed that 56-year-old Jason Keith Payne was killed Saturday evening when a tree fell onto his car during severe weather.
The fatal incident occurred around 6:48 p.m. along State Route 51 near Garrison Road in Banks County. Troopers responded quickly after receiving a call about a crash involving a tree and a vehicle. When they arrived, they discovered that Payne had been driving a 2000 Nissan Altima eastbound when a large tree suddenly collapsed from the southern side of the road, crushing the top of his car.
Emergency responders pronounced Payne dead at the scene. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) believes the tree was brought down by intense winds and rain from a line of storms that passed through the metro Atlanta area earlier that day. The storms caused widespread damage, including fallen trees, power outages, and dangerous driving conditions across multiple counties.
News of the tragic accident has sent waves of sorrow through the Carnesville community, where Payne was known and respected. Friends and neighbors have expressed their condolences, remembering him as a kind-hearted and hardworking man. His sudden death has added to growing concerns about the risks posed by severe weather and falling trees during storms.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp addressed the tragedy in a message posted to X (formerly Twitter), offering his prayers and support to Payne’s loved ones. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of life caused by this weekend’s storms,” the governor wrote. “Our thoughts are with the family of Mr. Payne and all those impacted across the state.”
As cleanup continues in areas hit by the storm, local authorities are reminding drivers to remain cautious during and after severe weather. Roadways may still have hidden dangers, including unstable trees and debris. Officials are also encouraging residents to report any damaged trees or potential hazards to local emergency services.
The Georgia State Patrol has not released further details about the crash, but the investigation remains ongoing. Payne’s death marks a tragic reminder of how quickly severe weather can turn deadly—even for those simply driving home.
