Jackson County, Georgia, October 14, 2025
News Summary
A truck driver has been charged in connection with a tragic crash on I-85 in Jackson County, Georgia, that resulted in the deaths of eight individuals, including five children. The truck driver was reportedly following too closely and has been arrested on multiple charges, including second-degree vehicular homicide. The crash has prompted an investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board. The victims have been identified, with family members mourning the loss of their loved ones while authorities continue to monitor the situation.
Jackson County, Georgia – A truck driver has been charged in connection with a devastating crash on I-85 that resulted in the deaths of eight people, including five children. The tragic accident took place on a Monday afternoon when a semitrailer struck a family van, igniting a fire that engulfed the vehicle.
The collision occurred in Jackson County, approximately 62 miles northeast of Atlanta. Authorities reported that the semitrailer was following too closely to the Dodge van at the time of the impact. The truck driver, identified as 33-year-old Kane Hammock from Gainesville, was arrested and booked on multiple charges, including eight counts of second-degree vehicular homicide and second-degree vehicular feticide.
Additionally, Hammock has been charged with following too closely, distracted driving, and operating a vehicle without a current plate. The crash involved four other vehicles in a chain reaction following the initial impact. Seven people inside the Dodge van were pronounced dead on the scene, while the body of an eighth victim was discovered later at the crash site.
The victims have been identified by family members as Kenia Ramirez, Darwin Ventura, and their child, Kayle, with the couple expecting another baby. Also among the deceased were Sonia Maribel Ramirez, Kenia’s mother, and her four children: Justin, Andy, Natali, and Evan, whose ages ranged from 2 to 16.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated a safety investigation into the incident. In the aftermath of the crash, all northbound lanes of I-85 were shut down for several hours, diverting traffic to Exit 140. The scene was chaotic, with one van completely engulfed in flames.
As an additional note, Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelter confirmed that one of its transport vans, carrying 37 cats, was involved in the crash. Some of the animals sustained injuries, and five cats were reported missing.
The Georgia State Patrol is currently leading the investigation into the crash, with preliminary details still emerging as the situation develops.
Key Details of the Incident
- Location: Jackson County, Georgia
- Date: Monday afternoon
- Charges Against Truck Driver: Kane Hammock – 8 counts of second-degree vehicular homicide, second-degree vehicular feticide, following too closely, distracted driving, and operating a vehicle without a current plate.
- Victims: 8 deceased, including 5 children, all identified by family members.
Background Context
The tragic event highlights the dangers of distracted and aggressive driving. The extensive investigation by the Georgia State Patrol and the NTSB will examine multiple factors contributing to this catastrophic accident.
Further Information
This incident has shocked the local community and raised concerns over truck driver safety and the enforcement of road regulations.
FAQ
What caused the I-85 crash in Jackson County?
The crash occurred when a semitrailer struck a family van, and authorities stated that the semitrailer was following too closely at the time of the collision.
How many people died in the crash?
Eight people died in the crash, including five children.
What charges has the truck driver faced?
The truck driver, Kane Hammock, faces eight counts of second-degree vehicular homicide, second-degree vehicular feticide, following too closely, distracted driving, and operating a vehicle without a current plate.
What is being done in response to the crash?
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a safety investigation into the crash, and the Georgia State Patrol is leading the ongoing investigation.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Jackson County, Georgia |
| Date | Monday afternoon |
| Number of Fatalities | 8 deceased, including 5 children |
| Charges Against Driver | 8 counts of second-degree vehicular homicide, 2nd-degree vehicular feticide, following too closely, distracted driving, operating a vehicle without a current plate |
| Investigating Agency | Georgia State Patrol, NTSB |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First
- AJC
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Main Street News
- Google Search: I-85 crash Jackson County Georgia
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