Two Drivers Die in Wreck In Wheeler

Two drivers died following the collision of their vehicles on Georgia Highway 19 in Wheeler County on April 10. Tony Harper, 57, of Hazlehurst was pronounced dead at the scene and Byung Hee Yang, 55, of Brunswick was extricated from his vehicle and transported to Jeff Davis Hospital where he later died from his injuries. The accident occurred shortly after 10 p.m. at the intersection of Shadydale Road and Highway 19 when Harper’s 2001 Chevrolet Impala, which was traveling north, crossed the center line and struck Yang’s 2020 Honda Passport, which was headed south.

The Georgia State Patrol, which investigated, reported that after impact, Harper’s vehicle rotated counterclockwise for approximately 16 feet and came to an uncontrolled final rest within the southbound lane, facing northwest.

After impact, Yang’s vehicle rotated counterclockwise and traveled northeast for approximately 15 feet, then began to overturn. Yang’s vehicle continued to overturn for approximately 28 feet in a northeastern direction until coming to an uncontrolled final rest on its passenger side, facing east. The area of final rest for Yang’s vehicle was approximately 24 feet from the edge of the roadway.

The GSP determined that Harper was at fault in the mishap. Drug and alcohol tests were administered and results are pending.