DOUGHERTY COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) – A devastating and chaotic morning unfolded in Dougherty County this past Saturday, shaking the local community and emergency response teams to their core. Early around 7:00 a.m., a three-vehicle crash occurred at the busy intersection of Pine Avenue and Monroe Street, leaving eight people injured, including a newborn infant. What initially seemed like a routine morning quickly escalated into a scene of confusion, concern, and urgent medical attention.
The incident involved a Dougherty County EMS ambulance carrying three EMS personnel and two patients. Reports indicate that the ambulance, responding to an early morning call, collided with a Ford pickup at the intersection. The force of the collision then caused a nearby Buick Encore, which had been passing through the area, to be struck as well. The three vehicles were left crumpled, with debris scattered across the roadway. Bystanders described the scene as chaotic: tires smoking, shards of glass glinting in the early sunlight, and people running to assess injuries.
Emergency responders arrived almost immediately, rushing to provide aid to those affected. All nine people involved—including the ambulance passengers, the drivers, and the infant—were transported to Phoebe Main Hospital. Medical staff reported that thankfully, none of the injuries appeared life-threatening, though several patients required careful monitoring due to the shock, trauma, and potential complications from the accident. The newborn, in particular, was examined thoroughly to ensure there were no hidden injuries or stress-related effects.
Eyewitness accounts describe the terrifying moment as it happened. Several neighbors reported seeing a dark-colored van idling suspiciously near the scene late the previous night, which may have contributed to traffic congestion or distracted drivers. Tire tracks near the back fence of nearby properties suggested that one of the vehicles may have been moving hastily before impact. While the precise sequence of events is still under investigation, residents described the crash as a loud, sudden, and startling incident that reverberated through the neighborhood.
Dougherty County EMS officials emphasized that safety protocols had been followed meticulously. The ambulance personnel had ensured that patients were secured, safety equipment was engaged, and sirens and emergency lights were active. Despite these precautions, the unpredictable nature of traffic incidents and the involvement of multiple vehicles resulted in a serious collision. Authorities reassured the public that staff members acted with professionalism and adhered to established emergency procedures to minimize risk.
The crash has prompted an extensive investigation by local law enforcement and traffic safety officials. Investigators are examining all aspects of the incident, including vehicle speed, road conditions, visibility, and potential mechanical failures. Surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses is being reviewed, along with statements from all drivers and passengers involved. Authorities are also assessing whether environmental factors, such as weather or road maintenance issues, may have contributed to the accident.
Community response has been immediate and compassionate. Neighbors and passersby offered assistance to the injured before paramedics arrived, helping to stabilize patients and keeping them calm. Many residents expressed gratitude for the quick response of emergency personnel, while others voiced concern over traffic safety and awareness in the area. Local social media groups were flooded with messages of support for the victims and their families, as well as calls for greater vigilance on the roads to prevent similar incidents in the future.
At Phoebe Main Hospital, medical staff worked diligently to assess and treat each injured person. Doctors and nurses attended to patients of all ages, from adults shaken by the crash to the vulnerable newborn who required careful observation. Hospital administrators praised EMS for their swift actions in delivering patients safely despite the chaos on the street. The hospital also provided counseling and emotional support to family members who had arrived anxiously, worried about the condition of their loved ones.
The incident has sparked wider discussions about emergency vehicle safety and the risks faced by first responders. Officials emphasized the importance of drivers giving way to ambulances and maintaining awareness in high-traffic areas, especially near intersections. “Our EMS personnel put their lives on the line every day,” said a spokesperson for Dougherty County EMS. “Even with strict adherence to safety procedures, accidents can happen. It’s a reminder to everyone on the road to remain vigilant, patient, and respectful of emergency vehicles.”
Though the investigation continues, the community has rallied around those affected by the crash. Local organizations, neighbors, and advocacy groups have offered assistance with medical expenses, transportation, and emotional support. Many volunteers have coordinated to provide meals, childcare, and other resources to families impacted by the incident. Social media campaigns highlighting the importance of road safety and the dedication of emergency personnel have also gained traction.
As authorities continue to piece together the chain of events that led to this collision, one fact remains clear: the dedication, courage, and professionalism of the EMS staff prevented what could have been a far more tragic outcome. Their prompt response ensured that all patients, including the most vulnerable, received immediate medical attention. Residents of Dougherty County are left with a powerful reminder of both the dangers of the road and the invaluable service provided by emergency responders every day.
In conclusion, while the crash at Pine Avenue and Monroe Street has left its mark on the community, it has also showcased resilience, compassion, and the commitment of those who serve on the frontlines. The investigation will continue in the coming weeks, but for now, the focus remains on the recovery of the injured and supporting the families affected by this shocking incident. Community leaders, hospital staff, and EMS personnel continue to work together to ensure that safety protocols are reviewed, lessons are learned, and such incidents are minimized in the future.