HEPHZIBAH, Ga. — A community is in deep mourning following the tragic death of 8-year-old Camden Poole, who was killed in a devastating car crash on the very day he was celebrating his birthday. The incident occurred Monday, May 6, at the intersection of Peach Orchard and Tobacco Roads in Richmond County, Georgia.
According to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, the crash involved a pickup truck driven by 49-year-old Lee Earnest Jones Jr. of Waynesboro. Authorities say Jones was found to be at fault in the collision, which fatally injured young Camden, a second-grade student at Hephzibah Elementary School. Jones has since been arrested and faces multiple charges related to the deadly incident.
The Richmond County Coroner, Mark Bowen, confirmed that Camden was pronounced dead at the scene. He had been riding in a vehicle with family members when the crash occurred—a joyful birthday celebration turned into an unimaginable nightmare.
The heartbreaking loss has sent shockwaves through Hephzibah Elementary School, where Camden was known and loved by his teachers, classmates, and school staff. Principal Dr. Josh Workman addressed the school community in an emotional letter, describing the incident as a tragedy that has deeply affected students and staff alike.
“The students and staff of Hephzibah Elementary School experienced a tragedy with the death of one of our second-grade students. All of us are grieving this tragic loss,” Workman wrote. “This is a very difficult time for all of us. We want to be sensitive to the needs of your children.”
In response, a team of grief counselors has been deployed to the school and will remain available for as long as needed to support students and faculty during this time of mourning. Parents are encouraged to talk with their children and provide additional emotional support as they process the sudden and devastating loss of a classmate.
Camden, affectionately remembered by family as a bright, sweet boy with an infectious smile and boundless curiosity, was described as “a light in every room he entered.” He loved reading, dinosaurs, and playing with his siblings. His teachers recall a student full of questions and enthusiasm for learning, with a kindness that touched everyone around him.
A growing memorial of stuffed animals, flowers, and birthday balloons now marks the crash site, as friends, neighbors, and classmates continue to stop by and pay their respects. A candlelight vigil is being planned in Camden’s honor later this week.
As the Poole family grapples with unimaginable grief, community members are rallying around them, offering prayers, meals, and donations to help cover funeral expenses. A GoFundMe page has been established to support the family during this incredibly difficult time.
Meanwhile, authorities continue their investigation into the crash. Lee Earnest Jones Jr. faces charges including vehicular homicide and failure to yield, according to the sheriff’s office. He is currently in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.
Camden Poole’s life was tragically cut short, but his memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. As his community mourns the loss of a child taken far too soon, they are left holding onto the joy he brought to their lives—and the painful reminder of how fragile and precious life truly is.
The post Camden Poole Obituary: In loving memory of Hephzibah boy killed on his 8th birthday in crash on Peach Orchard and Tobacco Roads; Lee Earnest Jones Jr. arrest & charges. first appeared on Voxtrend News.
