Two Morgan County boys died in a tragic ATV accident on the afternoon of Jan. 20, and another was life-flighted to an area hospital due to his injuries.
Bennett Rabern, 12, and Avett Jackson, 12, were both pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.
A third victim, Bryson Hammond, was placed on board a helicopter flown to a hospital for treatment.
According to Morgan County Fire Chief Garrett Smith, Hammond was alert and stable when he was flown out, and reports indicated that his injuries were relatively minor.
Smith said dispatch received a call about the accident at approximately 3:45 p.m., and personnel were sent to the location off Old Buckhead Road and Oak Lane.
Smith said the ATV collided with an equipment trailer, resulting in the death of the two boys. Avett would have turned 13 on Jan. 23, and Bennett on March 1. Both boys were seventh-grade students at Morgan County Middle School, and both were known as outgoing and well-liked young men.
“It was a horrible afternoon for sure,” Smith said.
The Morgan County Charter Schools community was already reeling on Monday night.
“There are no words that can ease the sorrow and sadness we feel right now,” Morgan County School Superintendent Virgil Cole said. “By all accounts, these boys were and are the best of Morgan. We have been coordinating our response with our counselors, local clergy, outside counselors, and other support groups, including those in nearby school districts. We mourn with and for these families and all those affected by this terrible tragedy. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”