A fatal motor vehicle crash occurred Thursday morning on Gordon Highway at Jimmy Dyess Parkway in Augusta, resulting in the death of 22-year-old David Houck of Fort Eisenhower.
The incident took place when Houck, who was attempting to cross Gordon Highway, was struck by an eastbound vehicle.
According to Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen, Houck was transported to Wellstar MCG Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 8:54 a.m. A routine autopsy has been scheduled as part of the investigation.
His family remembered him as a “beloved son and grandson” as well as “loyal specialist for the U.S. Army.” He was with the 513th Military Intelligence Brigade.
The incident occurred during peak morning hours, which have raised concerns among local residents about the safety of the intersection.
“People ALWAYS run this light,” said Bykei Durham Sr., a local resident. “All the police need to do is just park in the grass by the Eisenhower sign and wait. From 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. is one of the absolute worst intersections,” he continued, noting that many drivers ignore traffic signals in the area.
Nianne Asbach Kelley, another area resident, shared her own experience at the intersection, recalling a past accident where a driver rear-ended her while distracted by their phone.
“This intersection always gives me anxiety,” she said.
Daniel Quarles, who also lives in the area, suggested that the traffic lights at the intersection change too quickly, leading drivers to speed through the light.
“The engineers have the lights changing too fast, so everyone tries to beat the light. Sometimes the lights only stay green for 10 to 15 seconds, so people get impatient,” Quarles said. “The lights need to be looked at again.”
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the crash, and no further details have been released.
Note: If you have a photo of David Houck to share, please text it to 803-487-3224.
