Camden Poole Obituary, Death: 8-year-old second grader dies in crash on birthday.

Camden Poole Obituary, Death – A devastating car crash in Georgia claimed the life of 8-year-old Camden Poole on what was meant to be a joyful celebration—his birthday. According to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, the collision occurred on Monday and led to the arrest of 49-year-old Lee E. Jones of Waynesboro, who has been deemed responsible for the fatal accident.

The tragedy unfolded around 1:04 p.m. at the intersection of Peach Orchard Road and Tobacco Road in Richmond County. Camden was riding in a 2008 Hyundai Elantra with two adults when a 2002 pickup truck driven by Jones struck their vehicle. Authorities later confirmed that Camden died in the emergency room at 1:50 p.m., less than an hour after the crash.

Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen formally identified Camden as the victim. The loss of the young boy has rippled through the community, particularly at Hephzibah Elementary School, where Camden was a second-grade student. His death has left classmates, teachers, and school staff heartbroken.

Principal Dr. Josh Workman reached out to parents through a letter on Tuesday, expressing the school’s sorrow and sharing plans to support students and staff through the grieving process. “The students and staff of Hephzibah Elementary School experienced a tragedy with the death of one of our second-grade students. All of us are grieving this tragic loss,” the letter read. To help the school community cope, grief counselors have been made available for as long as needed.

Dr. Workman also encouraged parents to provide emotional support to their children during this difficult time. “Your child may have a special need at this time for your comfort and support; please try to be available to listen to them,” he advised. “This is a very difficult time for all of us. We want to be sensitive to the needs of your children.”

Camden’s mother, Kayla, shared her heartbreak publicly through a social media post. Her message offered a glimpse into the deep bond she shared with her son and the pain of losing him so suddenly. “I am heartbroken and honestly have no words at this time. I appreciate all of the loving words for my baby. He was truly the sweetest boy and always put a smile on everyone’s face. He was my best friend and such a mama’s boy. I can’t wait to see you again, one day, beautiful boy,” she wrote. “You’re the reason I do what I do and I’m going to keep striving for you, knowing you’re looking down on me, cheering me on.”

The crash report provides a detailed account of the incident. The pickup truck was heading south on Peach Orchard Road, approaching the intersection with Tobacco Road. At the same time, the Hyundai Elantra, carrying Camden and the two adults, was traveling north on the same road and moving into the left-turn lane.

Jones claimed he was turning left after following another vehicle and believed he had a green left-turn arrow. On the other hand, the Elantra’s driver stated she had a green light and entered the intersection as it turned yellow, believing she had enough time to proceed. The crash occurred when Jones made his left turn, failing to yield to oncoming traffic, according to the findings of law enforcement.

Officials have reported that all three individuals in the Elantra were taken to the hospital following the crash. Sadly, Camden did not survive his injuries. It was confirmed that the child was securely fastened in a child restraint system at the time of the accident, indicating that all proper safety measures had been followed by those in the Hyundai.

An autopsy for Camden has been scheduled by the Richmond County Coroner’s Office, which may provide more clarity on the exact cause of his fatal injuries.

In the aftermath of the crash, deputies determined that Jones was at fault for failing to yield while turning left. He was taken into custody by Tuesday afternoon, although the specific charges he faces have not yet been made public.

This tragic incident has left the local community in mourning. The emotional toll is especially heavy because the crash happened on Camden’s 8th birthday—a milestone that should have been filled with joy and celebration. Instead, it turned into a day of sorrow for his family, friends, classmates, and teachers.

As the investigation continues, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information or witness accounts to come forward. Investigators are working diligently to reconstruct the crash and determine if additional factors may have contributed.

Camden’s death has left a painful void in the hearts of many. At just 8 years old, he is remembered for his cheerful personality, kind heart, and the way he could brighten any room with his presence. His mother’s words echo the deep grief and enduring love that remain in the wake of this heartbreaking accident.

Though no amount of justice can erase the pain caused by this tragic crash, the arrest of the driver responsible marks a step toward accountability. As the community comes together to support Camden’s loved ones, his short but impactful life continues to be honored by those who knew and cherished him.