One Killed, One Injured in Franklin Co. Wreck

By MJ Kneiser, WLHR Radio, Lavonia

Authorities say alcohol likely played a role in a two-vehicle wreck that left one of the drivers dead.

It happened about 6 p.m. Tuesday  on State Route 328/Gumlog Road in Franklin County, when, according to Hartwell Post Assistant Commander Matt Baxley, one of the drivers crossed the center line going around the curve at the intersection of Franklin County Boat Ramp Road.

“A Chevrolet S-10 was traveling south on Georgia 328, negotiating a curve near the intersection of Franklin County Boat Ramp Road,” said Baxley.  “The vehicle failed to maintain its lane of travel and crossed the center line, at which point it struck a passenger vehicle head-on.”

The driver who was killed is identified as Andrew Wilkes of Commerce.

Franklin County Sheriff’s Office deputies assisted in the accident investigation, shutting down Gumlog Road from both directions while troopers worked the scene.

Baxley said troopers conducted an extensive investigation for several hours after the wreck and he says it appears Wilkes was driving under the influence.

“The driver of S-10 passed away from injuries suffered in the crash,” said Baxley.  “The driver of the vehicle was airlifted to Greenville Memorial Hospital for treatment there.  Alcohol was determined to be a factor in this crash.”

Baxley said the driver who was injured is an elderly woman.

Her name has not been released.