High school senior killed in Newton County car crash

A Newton County high school senior was killed over the weekend when he lost control of his vehicle and it crashed down an embankment.

William Hood, a student at Eastside High School in Covington, “was an outstanding young man who was involved in a variety of activities,” a school official said on Facebook.

Just after 2 a.m. Saturday, Hood was driving his Ford Expedition north on Ga. 36 near Covington and lost control at a bend in the road, Newton County sheriff’s Sgt. Michael Cunningham told AJC.com.

“As he came out of a slight left turn, both of his passenger wheels left the roadway,” Cunningham said. “Mr. Hood attempted to correct the mishap and overcorrected, which caused his vehicle to leave the roadway.”

The Ford rolled about 75 feet down an embankment before coming to rest with the roof of the SUV against a large tree. Hood was found dead at the crash site.

Cunningham said there were no other contributing factors in the crash. Hood wasn’t speeding, and there were no other vehicles involved.

“He is definitely missed as he was a friend to many,” the Eastside High official said.

Grief counselors were at the school Monday to meet with students.

In other news:

Hurricane Florence is currently projected to make landfall in the Carolinas Thursday night as a category 4 storm.

About the Author

Chelsea Prince

Chelsea Prince is reporter and coach on the breaking news team.

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