Eighth Victim Found in Tragic Georgia Highway Crash

Wed Oct 15 2025 07:06:08 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A devastating crash involving a semitrailer and a van on Interstate 85 in Jackson County has resulted in eight fatalities, prompting an investigation by authorities.

Authorities have confirmed the discovery of an eighth victim at the site of a horrific highway crash in Georgia. The tragedy unfolded when a semitrailer collided with a van, leading to a chain reaction involving multiple vehicles. Among the injured are members of an animal rescue group transporting cats, with several animals fleeing the wreckage. An investigation is ongoing to establish the details surrounding the incident.

ATLANTA - In a tragic turn of events, an eighth body has been discovered at the site of a catastrophic crash on Interstate 85 in Jackson County, according to Deputy Jackson County Coroner Dean Stringer. The crash occurred when a semitrailer collided with a van, igniting a fiery explosion that claimed the lives of seven individuals on Monday afternoon.

Initial reports from law enforcement indicate that the semitrailer was following too closely behind the Dodge van when the incident took place, approximately 62 miles northeast of Atlanta. This collision initiated a chain reaction, prompting four additional vehicles to crash in the aftermath.

One of the vehicles involved was a van utilized by Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters, which was transporting 37 cats to a shelter in Vermont. The driver of this van suffered bruises and cuts, while the chaos of the accident caused some cages to collapse, allowing cats to flee the wreckage. As of Tuesday, two cats remain unaccounted for, and one is currently receiving critical care following the accident.

The identities of the deceased have not yet been revealed, as authorities continue to work on identifying and confirming the occupants involved. Georgia Department of Public Safety spokesperson Franka Young stated that the crash is under investigation by the state's Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team.

This harrowing accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and maintaining a cautious distance while driving. Our thoughts are with the victims' families and all those affected by this tragic event.