Tragedy in Jacksonville: Florida Couple Killed in Horrific Crash Involving Stolen Car
Jacksonville, FL – A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on the streets of Jacksonville this week when a Florida couple lost their lives in a violent collision caused by a stolen vehicle. Kirk Granfors, 64, and his wife, Kathy Granfors, 68, both from Florida, were passengers in a taxi when their lives were abruptly cut short by a reckless act that highlights the dangers of high-speed chases and recidivism in the criminal justice system.
The fatal crash occurred at the intersection of Demonbreun Street and 12th Avenue, a typically busy area that turned into a scene of devastation. According to police reports and witness accounts, the taxi — a Toyota van — was traveling westbound on Demonbreun Street and had the right of way with a green light. As it entered the intersection, a Jeep Grand Cherokee, later confirmed to be stolen, sped southbound on 12th Avenue and slammed into the passenger side of the taxi.
The force of the impact was catastrophic. Kathy Granfors was seated on the side where the vehicle was struck and died instantly at the scene. Her husband, Kirk Granfors, sustained critical injuries and was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Despite efforts by medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Behind the wheel of the stolen Jeep was 37-year-old George A. Chaney of Nashville, an ex-convict with a lengthy criminal record. Chaney attempted to flee the scene on foot after the crash, but due to injuries sustained in the collision, he was unable to escape. He was taken into custody by responding officers. Other occupants of the Jeep reportedly fled the scene before law enforcement could arrive and remain at large.
Chaney’s criminal history paints a troubling picture. In April 2019, he was sentenced to two concurrent 12-year prison terms following convictions for heroin-related offenses. He was released on parole in February 2024, a mere two months before this fatal incident. Just weeks prior to the crash, Chaney had already been arrested again — this time for attempting to evade police in another stolen vehicle.
This devastating incident has sparked outrage and grief in the Jacksonville community and beyond. Family, friends, and neighbors of the Granfors couple are mourning the loss of two beloved individuals who were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. “They were kind, generous people who loved life and their community,” a family friend said. “This shouldn’t have happened to them.”
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the crash and are searching for the other individuals who fled the stolen Jeep. They are also reviewing Chaney’s parole record and recent arrest to determine how he remained out of custody despite clear warning signs.
The tragedy underscores ongoing concerns about parole supervision, criminal justice reform, and the danger posed by repeat offenders who continue to engage in high-risk behavior. Lawmakers and community leaders have called for a thorough review of the policies that allowed Chaney back onto the streets so soon.
As the Granfors family prepares for an unimaginable farewell, many are left wondering how a system designed to rehabilitate offenders and protect the public failed so catastrophically. For now, the focus remains on justice for Kirk and Kathy Granfors — two lives taken far too soon.