Heartbreaking Tragedy Strikes on His 8th Birthday: Second Grader Camden Poole Killed in Car Crash, Community Left in Shock
AUGUSTA, Ga. — What should have been a joyful celebration turned into a heartbreaking tragedy on Monday, May 5, 2025, when 8-year-old Camden Poole was killed in a devastating car crash — on the very day he was celebrating his birthday.
Camden, a second-grade student at Hephzibah Elementary School, was riding in a vehicle when it was struck by a pickup truck in a collision that would claim his young life. The crash occurred in Richmond County, and emergency responders rushed to the scene to provide aid. Despite their best efforts, Camden succumbed to his injuries.
According to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, the driver of the pickup truck, 49-year-old Lee E. Jones of Waynesboro, was determined to be at fault for the collision. He has since been arrested and faces charges related to the crash. Further details about the cause and circumstances of the incident are still under investigation.
News of Camden’s death has left the Hephzibah community devastated. At Hephzibah Elementary, grief counselors and support staff have been made available to students and teachers struggling to process the sudden loss of a bright, kind-hearted child who brought joy to his classroom every day.
“Our hearts are absolutely broken,” said one school staff member. “Camden was loved by his teachers and classmates. This is a loss that will be felt for a very long time.”
Neighbors and family friends have taken to social media to express condolences and share memories of the boy who had so much ahead of him. A small memorial with flowers, balloons, and messages has formed near the site of the crash — a tribute to a life cut far too short.
Camden’s family is in the process of making funeral arrangements and has requested privacy as they navigate the immense grief of losing their beloved son on what should have been a day of celebration.
Authorities continue to ask anyone with information about the crash to contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office as the investigation remains active.
This tragic event serves as a painful reminder of how quickly life can change — and of the importance of driving safely and responsibly. The entire community stands in mourning with the Poole family, remembering a young boy whose light will never be forgotten.