ROME, Ga. — A community is mourning the loss of two parents after a tragic ATV accident left several children injured over the Labor Day weekend. The incident has brought grief to the city, where friends and family remembered Marcus Ragland and Ashley Hawkins as devoted caregivers and vibrant individuals.
Ragland, 34, was a father to ten children, including three with Hawkins, who herself was a mother to three. Family members described him as a cheerful soul who connected with everyone around him. “He was a good boy,” said Felecia Towers, Ragland’s mother. “He met no strangers and was always fun to be around. I’m going to miss him dearly.”
The accident occurred Saturday at Indian Mountain ATV Park in Piedmont, Alabama, not far from the Georgia border. Initial reports indicate that the ATV carrying Ragland, Hawkins, and seven of their children collided with another vehicle while traveling at a high speed. Witnesses noted that the vehicle rolled over before crashing into a tree. Ragland was pronounced dead at the scene, while Hawkins was airlifted to a local hospital, where she later died.
Seven siblings were hurt in the collision. Among the injured, Ragland’s 13-year-old son has suffered a skull fracture, while his 10-year-old daughter is dealing with a broken collarbone, and his 2-year-old daughter has spleen injuries. Four children were airlifted to nearby hospitals, with the other three transported by ground.
Family members confirmed that Ragland was operating the ATV during the accident. Friends have set up a fundraising campaign to support the children in the wake of this devastating incident. Reports suggest that six of Ragland’s children were involved in the crash, and the fundraiser has garnered significant community support.
The last moments before the accident have raised concerns among officials, particularly regarding safety regulations at the ATV park. Alabama state legislators noted that the park is loosely regulated, with many riders not utilizing seat belts or restraints. “There’s a critical need for more safety guidelines,” said Cherokee County Emergency Management Director Shawn Rogers.
In the days following the tragedy, loved ones have shared stories of both Ragland and Hawkins, highlighting their kindness and the love they had for their children. Makaylee McCary, one of Ragland’s daughters, expressed her grief, saying, “Ever since I found out, I’ve been really sad.” Her brother, Blayze, lamented the lost time with their father, reflecting on the short moments they had together.
Maya Boyett, a close friend of the couple, described the loss as heartbreaking. “They were both such good people who cared deeply for their kids,” she said. “It’s hard to believe they are really gone.”
As the community comes to grips with this tragedy, they remain committed to honoring the memory of Ragland and Hawkins, vowing to ensure their children know of their parents’ love and dedication. “I’ll always remind them of what a great father Marcus was. They need to know their daddy was that dude,” Boyett added.
The investigation into the accident continues. Authorities are examining how such a heartbreaking event could have occurred and are advocating for heightened safety awareness in recreational activities to prevent similar incidents in the future.