Baldwin Fire Chief Struck By Vehicle Over Weekend

By MJ Kneiser, WLHR Radio, Lavonia

Baldwin Fire Chief Joe Roy is expected to recover from injuries he received over the weekend during a fundraiser.

It happened Saturday morning at the intersection of Georgia Highway 384/ Duncan Bridge Road at Mud Creek Road near Baldwin in Habersham County, according to Georgia State Patrol Toccoa Post trooper 1st Class J. Tucker.

Tucker said Chief Roy and other firefighters were conducting a boot drive at that intersection to raise money to equip a public safety honor guard that is organizing in Habersham County.

Roy suffered serious injuries, according to a Sunday press conference.

Baldwin Mayor Jerry Neace said Roy suffered a broken left shoulder blade; underwent surgery Saturday for repair of a severe laceration to his right arm that nicked the tendon to his tricep; a laceration to the back of his head; and a slight tear in his spleen.

Baldwin officials said Roy has a long recovery ahead but are optimistic he will be able to return to duty.

For now, Roy remains at Grady Memorial Hospital, where he is expected to be for at least a couple of days.

Atlanta Fire Department is assisting the family with their needs while at the hospital.

The driver of the vehicle that struck Roy is identified as R.W. Nored of Dahlonega.

Trooper Tucker said the accident remains under investigation and no charges have been filed at this time.