A quiet stretch of South Mock Road became the stage for heartbreak early Sunday morning, October 12, when 20-year-old Carrie Sims lost her life in a tragic collision with a vehicle. The call came into the Dougherty County dispatch center at approximately 12:42 a.m., reporting a pedestrian struck in the 1400 block. Responders raced to the scene, but despite their efforts, Sims was pronounced dead on site, confirmed by Coroner Michael Fowler.
Details remain limited as authorities continue their investigation. Law enforcement officials say the driver stayed at the scene and cooperated fully during initial questioning. Investigators have begun documenting the scene meticulously — measuring tire marks, assessing damage to the vehicle, and cataloging environmental factors such as lighting and road conditions.
Preliminary information indicates that the section of South Mock Road where the crash occurred is poorly lit at night. It’s not yet determined whether visibility, weather, or speed contributed to the tragedy. No formal statements have been made about the driver’s identity or whether impairment or distraction played a role.
The investigative team is also canvassing the area for surveillance footage from nearby homes or businesses, hoping to piece together what transpired in the minutes leading up to the collision. Their work will include reconstructing the event timeline, analyzing physical evidence, and interviewing any witnesses who may have seen or heard something.
Meanwhile, Coroner Fowler’s office will carry out its standard autopsy procedures to confirm the cause and manner of death, with the findings to be appended to the full investigation report. Until then, no charges or citations have been announced as the circumstances are still unfolding.
This tragedy has jolted the local community, prompting sorrow and reflection. Residents say that stretch of road can be dangerous after dark, especially for anyone walking along the roadside. Many have called for improved street lighting, raised awareness about pedestrian visibility, and more caution from both drivers and walkers.
Officials continue to urge anyone with information—no matter how small—to reach out to the Albany Police Department’s traffic unit. As the community mourns with Carrie’s family and friends, there’s renewed emphasis on mutual responsibility: drivers to stay alert and reduce speed, and pedestrians to stay visible, use sidewalks when available, and remain cautious near roadways at night. Authorities promise updates as more facts emerge.