Teen involved in church van wreck dies from his injuries

An Eastanollee teen involved in Saturday afternoon’s wreck involving a church van in Demorest died early Wednesday, July 3.

Habersham County Coroner Kasey McEntire confirmed that 15-year-old Theodore Bone, known as Teddy to his family and friends, succumbed to his injuries at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and the whole River Point community during this very difficult time,” McEntire said.

Driver arrested

The Georgia State Patrol charged Barry Thomas Clark, 64, of Hartwell, with DUI and other charges in connection to the wreck on June 29, 2024. (Habersham County Sheriff’s Office)

Teddy had been on life support since the crash. He was fatally injured when an alleged DUI driver ran the red light at GA 365 South and Demorest-Mt. Airy Highway, according to the Georgia State Patrol’s preliminary crash investigation. The Toyota 4Runner struck the passenger side of a River Point Community Church van carrying Teddy, six other teens, and two adults.

Youth group members following behind them in a second church van witnessed the crash.

After the wreck, authorities arrested 64-year-old Barry Clark of Hartwell. In addition to DUI, they charged him with failure to obey a traffic control device and serious injury by vehicle. With Teddy’s death, additional charges may be pending.

The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office says Clark was released from jail on June 30 on a $24,225 bond.

Teddy is survived by his parents, Ricky and Leslie Bone, and nine siblings. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

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