FLOYD COUNTY, Ga. — The Armuchee High School community is mourning the loss of David Clemones, 15, a student and football player who died in a crash Tuesday evening.
Authorities reported that Clemones was a passenger in a pickup truck driven by a 16-year-old teammate, who was taking him home from football practice. The crash occurred shortly after 6 p.m. on Calhoun Road near Georgia Loop 1 when the truck collided with another pickup as the teen driver attempted a left turn.
Clemones and two other passengers were rushed to Atrium Health Floyd Hospital. Doctors later pronounced Clemones dead, while the conditions of the other two passengers were not immediately released. Authorities have not yet indicated whether any charges will be filed.
Friends, teammates, and community members gathered at the crash site Wednesday to build a memorial and honor Clemones. Teammate Carter Nash remembered him as “always energetic, happy. He was the kind of guy who always had a smile on his face.” Close friend and teammate Layne Rampley added, “It’s really hard for everybody. It’s impacted the whole community.”
Armuchee High’s principal released a statement expressing condolences:
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of our beloved Tribe — a student, teammate, and friend who touched so many lives. We stand together offering strength and compassion.”
Counselors have been made available at the school to support students and staff as they cope with the sudden loss. The Floyd County community continues to grieve while remembering Clemones as a vibrant young athlete who brought joy to those around him.
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