GSP Faults Log Truck Driver In Fatal Accident Near Alamo

Following an investigation, the Georgia State Patrol (GSP) has faulted the driver of a log truck in a fatal mishap on U.S. Highway 280 just outside of Alamo on May 1.

The accident claimed the life of Charles J. Spinn, 45, of Vidalia, who was deputy warden at Wilcox State Prison in Abbeville.

Jimmie Frank Willis, 69, of McRae, the driver of the log truck, apparently was not seriously injured in the crash and was taken by private vehicle for treatment at Memorial Health Meadows Hospital in Vidalia. There were no passengers in either vehicle involved in the wreck.

The GSP report noted that Willis, who was driving a log truck owned by WDP Timber LLC of Alamo, said he experienced brake failure as he approached the intersection where the crash occurred.

The report stated that the driver of the log truck and trailer was traveling west on Erick Road when he failed to yield at a stop sign and crossed into the path of Spinn’s vehicle, which was westbound on U.S. Highway 280 (Ga. 30). Spinn’s vehicle struck the left side of the trailer and came to rest on the highway, facing northwest.

After the collision, the log truck traveled onto the south shoulder of the highway, struck three road signs, and continued to travel back onto the highway, crossing both lanes and traveling off the north shoulder of the roadway before coming to rest in the north ditch on the highway.

GSP’s Troop 1 Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team and Motor Carrier Compliance Division were contacted for further investigation. These teams will complete a Level 1 inspection. Toxicology reports are pending. No charges have been filed.