A report released by the Georgia State Patrol on a deadly accident on Highway 48 on April 17th, that took the life of a Cloudland man was released and contains details that implicate a Trion man.  David M. Arnold, 47, is facing charges of second-degree vehicular homicide and failure to maintain a single lane in connection to the death of 51-year old David Joe Gill. The crash occurred around 8:30 AM near the intersection of Highway 48 and Indian Trail.

According to Arnold, who was driving a maroon 1999 Chevrolet Silverado, Gill’s red 1999 GMC Sierra “suddenly darted into his lane,” resulting in the collision. However, the Georgia State Patrol’s investigation paints a different picture. Post Commander Chris Harris stated, “Roadway evidence showed that all debris, tire marks, and road marks were in the eastbound lane. There was no evidence that Gill’s vehicle crossed the center line of the road prior to or after the collision.”

The official report indicates that after the initial impact, Arnold’s truck continued westbound in the eastbound lane before striking a guardrail. Gill’s vehicle spun counter-clockwise, left the roadway, and came to rest on the south shoulder. Arnold’s charges stem from second-degree vehicular homicide, a misdemeanor under Georgia law.

If convicted, Arnold could face up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and potentially community service or other penalties determined by the court.

The Georgia State Patrol’s Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team is continuing its investigation into the incident.