UPDATE FROM GEORGIA STATE PATROL
On July 25, 2016 at 1340 hours, a 2017 Ford Expedition driven by Walton County Sheriff Joe Chapman was traveling west on Gratis Road approaching Meadow Walk Drive. A 2009 Chevrolet Malibu driven by Nathifa Smith (1993 birthday) was traveling south on Meadow Walk Drive approaching Gratis Road. This intersection is controlled with a stop sign for Meadow Walk Drive only. The Malibu failed to yield while entering the roadway and entered into the path of the Expedition. The Expedition struck the Malibu on the left front panel/door with its front end. After impact, the Malibu rotated clockwise and came to an uncontrolled final rest in the westbound lane of Gratis Road, facing west. The Expedition rotated counterclockwise and began overturning as it entered onto the south shoulder. The Expedition came to an uncontrolled final rest on its left side, facing east. Smith was transported to Grady Memorial via air ambulance with unspecified serious injuries. Chapman was transported to Athens Regional via EMS with unspecified moderate injuries. Alcohol/drugs are not a factor. Airbags deployed in both vehicles.
UPDATE: Georgia State Patrol confirm that Walton County Sheriff Joe Chapman was one of the victims in this car wreck. He was transported to Athens Regional Hospital. The other victim, a woman, was life flighted.
Officials with Walton County Fire Rescue confirm they are working a two-car accident with entrapment and serious injuries in Monroe. The accident occurred where Gratis Rd turns into East Marable Street. One patient was flown to a trauma center via air ambulance, the other was taken by Walton EMS to Athens Regional. It happened sometime around 2 p.m., according to officials.
Please stand by for official confirmation on victims in this accident.