A Carnesville man was killed Saturday evening when a tree fell on his car as he was driving along State Route 51 in Banks County.
According to the Georgia State Patrol, the fatal incident happened at approximately 6:48 p.m. on June 7 near Garrison Road. Troopers say a 2000 Nissan Altima, driven by 56-year-old Jason Keith Payne, was traveling eastbound when a tree on the south side of the highway suddenly fell across the roadway.
The falling tree struck the top of Payne’s vehicle. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Payne’s mother, Betty Butcher, shared the sad news of her youngest son’s death on social media.
“We were told that his death was instantaneous, for which I am extremely grateful,” she shared. “Please keep us in your prayers.”
The accident occurred around the same time that severe weather raced through Northeast Georgia. Wind gusts of 40-50 mph were common along the line of storms that passed through, with isolated areas of higher gusts. The Jackson County Airport had the highest official reading of 54 mph.
Governor Brian Kemp asked fellow Georgians to pray for Payne’s family and the first responders “rushing to help those affected by this strong weather system and the safety of those in its path.”
Join us in praying for the loved ones of a Georgian tragically lost tonight due to the severe storms. As we keep them in our thoughts, we’re also praying for the first responders rushing to help those affected by this strong weather system and the safety of those in its path.
— Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) June 8, 2025
There are reports of downed trees and power lines throughout the region. Drivers are urged to use caution as emergency personnel continue to clear the roadways.
More severe weather is expected on Sunday.
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