Good Samaritans Tried to Save Hamilton Man After Fatal Crash on I-85 in Troup County
TROUP COUNTY, Ga. — Two strangers—a U.S. Army soldier and an off-duty firefighter—risked their lives to save a man they had never met after witnessing a crash early Thursday morning along Interstate 85 in Troup County.
Authorities say 48-year-old Cleveland Stallings of Hamilton was driving his grey GMC Sierra HD southbound near mile marker 26, just south of Hogansville, when his vehicle veered from the left lane into the median. The truck struck a guardrail, careened through trees, and plunged down an embankment into Flat Creek.
The Army soldier and firefighter immediately rushed toward the water, pulling Stallings from the submerged vehicle and performing CPR on the creek bank in the darkness of the early morning hours. Despite their heroic efforts, Troup County Coroner Erin Hackley pronounced Stallings dead at the scene.
The crash led to a full closure of I-85 southbound until 1:45 p.m., as crews worked to recover the vehicle and investigators began piecing together what caused Stallings to lose control.
Stallings’ death has left his community and loved ones in mourning, while many are commending the bravery and quick response of the two Good Samaritans who fought desperately to give him a chance at survival.
Our thoughts remain with Cleveland Stallings’ family during this difficult time.
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