FLOYD COUNTY, Ga. — The Armuchee High School community is reeling after the sudden death of 15-year-old David Clemones, a beloved student and football player, who tragically lost his life in a car crash Tuesday evening in Floyd County.
The Crash
According to the Georgia State Patrol, the crash occurred around 6:10 p.m. at the intersection of Georgia Loop 1 and Calhoun Road.
Authorities reported that David was a passenger in a red Ford F-150 pickup truck, driven by a fellow student, when the vehicle attempted a left turn and collided with a Dodge Ram driven by a 56-year-old Rome man. The impact was severe, killing David at the scene.
The driver of the Dodge Ram sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported for treatment. The student driving the Ford pickup survived but was injured.
A Beloved Student and Athlete
The loss of David Clemones has left a deep wound in the halls of Armuchee High School, where he was known as a dedicated student and a spirited member of the school’s football program. Teammates remembered him as a loyal friend who brought energy and encouragement to practices and games.
“David wasn’t just a teammate; he was like a brother to all of us,” one of his classmates shared. “His smile and laugh could brighten the darkest day.”
Vigils and Tributes
In the hours following the tragedy, classmates, teammates, and neighbors gathered at the crash site, building a memorial of flowers, notes, and football gear to honor David’s life.
On social media, tributes poured in from across Floyd County and beyond. Parents, teachers, and fellow students expressed heartbreak while offering prayers and support to the Clemones family.
“He had such a bright future ahead of him,” one community member posted. “It’s hard to make sense of something so tragic.”
Support From the School
The Floyd County School District released a statement acknowledging the devastating loss and confirming that grief counselors would be available for students and staff.
“Our hearts are broken as we grieve the loss of David Clemones,” the statement read. “He was a valued part of our Armuchee family, and his absence will be felt deeply. We encourage everyone to lean on one another and take care of each other during this difficult time.”
A Legacy That Will Live On
At just 15 years old, David’s life was cut short, but those who knew him say his impact will never be forgotten. His dedication to his team, his love for his friends and family, and his bright personality are the memories the community will hold onto as they navigate this grief together.
Funeral and memorial arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days, and community members say they will continue to gather in David’s honor.
As Floyd County mourns, one truth has been repeated again and again: David Clemones’ legacy of friendship, passion, and kindness will remain in the hearts of those who loved him.
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