MACON, Ga. — A devastating head-on collision early Thursday morning on Mercer University Drive near Grosso Avenue has left one man dead and three others critically injured, according to the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. The fatal crash, which occurred just after 5 a.m. on March 20, has shaken the community and prompted an ongoing investigation into its cause.
The accident involved a Dodge Durango and a Hyundai Elantra, which collided head-on east of Edwards Avenue. Authorities reported that the Dodge Durango was driven by a 51-year-old man, while the Hyundai Elantra was operated by 37-year-old Javaughn Raheen Hackney. Hackney’s vehicle also carried two passengers: a 29-year-old woman and a 9-year-old boy.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene and transported all three occupants of the Hyundai Elantra to Atrium Navicent Health for urgent medical treatment. Despite efforts to save him, Hackney succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital. Chief Deputy Coroner Lonnie Miley confirmed that Hackney’s next of kin had been notified of his tragic passing.
The two passengers in the Hyundai Elantra, along with the driver of the Dodge Durango, were reported to be in critical but stable condition as of Thursday morning. Their identities have not been released, and their conditions are being closely monitored by medical staff.
The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office has launched a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the collision occurred in the early hours of the morning, a time when visibility and road conditions can play a significant role in such incidents. However, authorities have not yet confirmed whether speed, impairment, or other factors contributed to the tragedy.
In a statement, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office urged anyone with information about the crash to come forward. “We are asking for the public’s assistance in piecing together what happened this morning,” said a spokesperson. “If you witnessed the crash or have any information that could help our investigation, please contact us immediately.”
The community is mourning the loss of Javaughn Raheen Hackney, whose life was cut short in the tragic accident. Friends and family are left grappling with the sudden loss, while the injured victims face a long road to recovery. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly during early morning hours when fatigue and reduced visibility can increase the risk of accidents.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash. They are examining vehicle debris, road conditions, and other evidence to determine the sequence of events and identify any potential contributing factors.
For now, the focus remains on supporting the victims and their families during this difficult time. The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-751-7500 or the Fatality Investigation Team.
