Officer Caleb Abney's heartbreaking death at the age of just 26 is so deeply tragic. An upstanding young man, he was a Hahira, Georgia police officer who lost his life during a traffic stop mere days ago. Abney would have been married in April to his beloved fiancee, Jordan Alexis Hicks. Instead, he is now being sadly mourned by his loved ones, fellow officers and community.
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A Traffic Stop That Turned Deadly
Per People, according to a statement from the Georgia State Patrol, Abney was handling what should have been a routine traffic stop of a Nissan. It was on Interstate 75 in Lowndes County just after midnight on Thursday, February 19. Another motorist appeared on the scene in a Chevrolet Camaro. That person did not stay in their lane, and slammed into Abney's patrol car with him inside. His vehicle then struck the Nissan. According to the Officer Down Memorial page, the Camaro driver "was traveling at speeds of 100 mph...."
Abney and the Camaro driver both died as a result of the collision.
The Hahira Police Department Grieves Officer Abney's Loss
In a
Facebook post on the same day Officer Caleb Abney passed away, the Hahira Police Department paid mournful tribute to him. "It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of the loss of Officer Caleb Abney, who was tragically killed in the line of duty earlier this morning. Officer Abney served our community with honor, courage, and unwavering dedication.The Georgia State Patrol is conducting the investigation into Officer Abney's death.
We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers from our community and first responder partners. During this incredibly difficult time, we ask that you continue to keep Officer Abney's family, friends, and law enforcement family in your thoughts and prayers in the days ahead."
There is also a photo of a Hahira Police Department badge with a black ribbon placed across it.
He Is Being Honored in Various Ways
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued an
executive order to honor Officer Abney on Thursday, February 26. It stated that the the U.S. flag and the State if Georgia flag will both fly at half-staff in Lowndes Country and at the State Capitol on Sunday, March 1, until sunset. That is the day of Officer Abney's funeral.A GoFundMe has been established in Officer Abney's memory to assist his fiancee and family. The goal is $200,000. As of Friday, February 27, $24,713 had been raised.
