Father and Son Killed in Tragic Storm-Related Accident in Muscogee County; Fallen Tree Crushes Golf Cart as Severe Weather Sweeps Across Georgia, Leaving Thousands Without Power

Muscogee County, GA — April 7, 2025 — In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Matthew Terrell Collins Sr. and his son, Matthew Jr., tragically lost their lives on April 5th, 2025, when a severe storm in Muscogee County, Georgia, caused a tree to snap and fall onto the golf cart they were sheltering under. The storm, which brought strong winds and heavy rain across the region, caused widespread destruction and left thousands of residents without power.

The Fatal Incident: A Sudden and Unpredictable Tragedy

The father and son duo were seeking refuge under a tree during the storm when, without warning, a powerful gust of wind snapped the tree, causing it to fall directly onto the golf cart. The force of the impact was fatal, with both father and son suffering blunt force trauma that resulted in their deaths at the scene. The tragedy occurred just moments after they had attempted to take shelter from the storm that had swept across the region.

The Collins family, known in their community for their warmth and close-knit family bond, is now faced with an unimaginable loss. The community has been left in shock by the sudden and tragic deaths of two beloved members. There were no other survivors from the accident, leaving a devastating void in the lives of those who knew and loved them.

Severe Weather and Tornado Fears Across Georgia

This tragic event is just one of many consequences of the powerful storms that tore through Georgia. The same storms that claimed the lives of Matthew Sr. and Matthew Jr. sparked widespread fears of tornadoes, with local authorities issuing tornado watches and warnings for areas across the state. Residents of Griffin and Locust Grove are still awaiting further reports, as officials continue to assess whether tornadoes were responsible for some of the damage in those regions.

As the storm moved across the state, it left behind significant damage, with downed trees, flooded roads, and widespread power outages affecting thousands of Georgians. Flood warnings have been issued for multiple counties as heavy rainfall continues to impact the area, further complicating rescue and relief efforts. The National Weather Service has been closely monitoring the storms, with teams assessing damage and conducting searches for potential twisters that could have touched down across the state.

The Impact on the Muscogee County Community

Muscogee County, where the Collins family lived, has been left reeling from the loss of two of its own. Local leaders have extended their condolences to the Collins family, describing Matthew Sr. and Matthew Jr. as good-hearted individuals who were deeply involved in the community. Friends, family, and neighbors have come together to mourn their passing, with many expressing their disbelief and sorrow at the devastating accident.

Sheriff Donna Tompkins of Muscogee County said in a statement, “This is a tragedy that none of us could have foreseen. We are all heartbroken for the Collins family and will do everything we can to support them during this difficult time. The loss of Matthew Sr. and Matthew Jr. is felt deeply in our community.”

The county has since begun making plans for a public memorial service to honor their lives and remember the contributions they made to their neighbors and the community.

A Family’s Unimaginable Grief

Matthew Terrell Collins Sr., 48, and his son, Matthew Jr., 20, were inseparable, sharing a love for outdoor activities, including golfing. Family members recall how the father and son spent much of their free time together, always eager to share laughter and make memories. Their bond was not just one of family, but of best friends, and their loss has left a profound emotional scar on their loved ones.

Matthew Sr.’s wife and Matthew Jr.’s mother, Sarah Collins, is devastated by the tragic accident. She has expressed her grief publicly, stating, “I can’t understand how this happened, how they’re gone so suddenly. They were my world. I don’t know how we’ll move forward without them.”

Sarah Collins is being supported by extended family and friends, who have rallied around her during this time of unimaginable loss. The grief of losing both husband and son in such a brutal and unexpected manner is overwhelming, and the family is struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.

The Storm’s Aftermath and Ongoing Recovery Efforts

As the storm continues to leave its mark on Georgia, authorities are working tirelessly to assess the damage and provide relief to those affected. Emergency response teams have been deployed to help residents recover from the devastation, clearing roads, restoring power, and assisting in flood relief efforts.

In Muscogee County and surrounding areas, crews are working around the clock to clear fallen trees and debris caused by the storm. Emergency services are also on high alert for any potential aftereffects of the storm, with rain continuing to pour in certain parts of the state and river levels rising.

State officials have been in communication with local governments, providing support and resources to those most in need. Georgia Governor Matthew Johnson has promised additional aid to the counties impacted by the storms, including financial support for those facing damage to their homes and properties.

“The storm may have taken away lives and caused destruction, but we are a resilient state, and we will rebuild together,” Governor Johnson said during a press conference on Saturday morning.

The Collins Family’s Call for Awareness

In the wake of the tragedy, the Collins family is raising awareness about the dangers of severe weather and the importance of being prepared during stormy conditions. While their grief remains raw, they hope that their loss will serve as a reminder to others to take shelter in a safe location when storms are approaching, particularly when trees or other objects may pose a risk.

The family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from their community and has asked for privacy during this difficult time as they mourn the loss of two of their beloved family members.

Looking to the Future: Community Support and Healing

As Muscogee County continues to recover from the storm and the tragic loss of Matthew Terrell Collins Sr. and Matthew Jr., the community is coming together to offer support. Neighbors have been bringing meals to the Collins family, offering a shoulder to lean on, and organizing memorial events in their honor.

The grief of losing two loved ones in such a brutal way will take time to heal, but the love and support from the Muscogee County community will help the Collins family navigate the difficult road ahead. Their legacy, built on love, joy, and togetherness, will live on in the hearts of all who knew them.

Conclusion

The tragic deaths of Matthew Terrell Collins Sr. and his son Matthew Jr. have left an indelible mark on their family, friends, and the community of Muscogee County. As authorities investigate the storm and its effects on the region, the family is left to mourn the loss of two beloved individuals whose lives were taken far too soon. While the storm may have ended, the healing for the Collins family and the community will continue, and the love and memories of Matthew Sr. and Matthew Jr. will endure.

Our thoughts are with the Collins family during this time of unimaginable loss. May they find comfort in the love and support of those around them.

For those wishing to offer support or learn more about the ongoing recovery efforts, please visit www.muscogee-strong.org.