A devastating crash occurred late Tuesday night around 10 PM on Interstate 520 near the Wrightsboro Road exit, involving two vehicles and leaving one man in critical condition. The collision has left both Augusta, GA, and Graniteville, SC, in shock and mourning.
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Suspect Identified: 63-Year-Old Daffna Kolier Charged in High-Speed Crash
Authorities have identified the driver responsible as 63-year-old Daffna Kolier of Augusta. She was allegedly driving a 2016 Chrysler 300 at dangerously high speeds and weaving through traffic before rear-ending a 2018 GMC Savana van. The impact caused the van to veer off-road and roll multiple times before coming to a stop.
Victim Identified as Donel Brown of Graniteville
Inside the van was 33-year-old Donel Brown, a dedicated community volunteer from Graniteville, SC. Brown was reportedly on his way to pick up food from Golden Harvest Food Bank as part of his work with the Family YMCA of Greater Augusta, where he volunteered regularly.
Critical Injuries and Emergency Surgery for Donel Brown
Brown sustained multiple critical injuries, including:
- Several broken ribs
- Two fractured legs
- Severe traumatic brain injury
He was rushed to Doctors Hospital of Augusta, where he underwent emergency surgery to stop internal bleeding. He remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on a ventilator with significant brain swelling. His condition is described as critical, with doctors working tirelessly to stabilize him.
DUI and Felony Charges Filed Against Daffna Kolier
Authorities have charged Kolier with multiple felonies, including:
- Vehicular Homicide (Felony)
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Reckless Driving
- Following Too Closely Resulting in Serious Injury
While toxicology reports are still pending, officials have confirmed alcohol as a contributing factor in the crash.
Investigation Underway by Richmond County Sheriff’s Office
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has launched an active investigation and is urging witnesses to come forward with any information. The community is watching closely as officials work to determine the full scope and cause of the accident.
Community Rallies Behind Donel Brown
Support for Brown has poured in from across the region. The Family YMCA of Greater Augusta, where Donel volunteered regularly, released an emotional statement:
“Donel is more than a team member – he’s family. Our hearts are broken, and we are praying for his recovery.”
Friends and neighbors have shared stories of Donel’s kindness, service, and dedication to helping those in need. A vigil is being planned, and fundraising efforts are underway to assist with medical expenses.
Renewed Calls to End Impaired and Reckless Driving
This tragic event has reignited discussions on the dangers of impaired driving and the importance of road safety awareness. Local leaders and safety advocates are calling for:
- Tougher DUI laws
- Community education initiatives
- Stricter enforcement of speed and lane-change regulations
Conclusion: A Community’s Plea for Change and a Life Worth Saving
The crash on I-520 is a stark reminder of the life-altering consequences of careless and impaired driving. For Donel Brown, a man known for serving others, this tragedy has turned into a fight for survival.
As the community waits and prays for his recovery, they are also demanding accountability and preventative action to ensure that no more lives are endangered by reckless behavior on the road.