Armuchee High School Mourns the Loss of Student-Athlete David Clemones
FLOYD COUNTY, Ga. — The Armuchee High School community is grieving the tragic loss of 15-year-old David Clemones, a beloved student and football player who died following a crash Tuesday evening.
Authorities said Clemones was riding in a pickup truck driven by a 16-year-old teammate who was taking him home from football practice. The collision occurred just after 6 p.m. on Calhoun Road near Georgia Loop 1, when the teen driver attempted a left turn and the vehicle collided with another pickup truck.
Clemones and two other passengers were rushed to Atrium Health Floyd Hospital for treatment. Despite doctors’ efforts, Clemones later died from his injuries. The conditions of the other passengers have not yet been released, and authorities have not announced whether charges will be filed as the investigation continues.
A Community in Mourning
The sudden loss of Clemones has deeply affected not only his family and teammates but the entire Armuchee community. On Wednesday, friends, classmates, and neighbors gathered at the crash site, placing flowers, jerseys, and heartfelt notes to build a growing memorial in his honor.
Teammate Carter Nash described Clemones as someone whose presence could brighten any room.
“Always energetic, happy. He was the kind of guy who always had a smile on his face.”
Close friend and teammate Layne Rampley echoed the heartbreak being felt across the school and community.
“It’s really hard for everybody. It’s impacted the whole community.”
School Response
Armuchee High’s principal released a statement offering condolences and affirming the school’s commitment to supporting students and staff in the wake of the tragedy:
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of our beloved Tribe — a student, teammate, and friend who touched so many lives. We stand together offering strength and compassion.”
Counselors have been made available on campus to provide emotional support as students, teachers, and staff work through the grief of losing such a vibrant young member of their school family.
Remembering David
Clemones is remembered as more than just a talented athlete. Those who knew him best describe him as a joyful, spirited young man, always ready to lift up others with his smile and positive energy. His teammates and coaches speak of his dedication to football and the enthusiasm he brought to every practice and game.
As the Floyd County community continues to mourn, tributes to Clemones highlight the impact he made in just 15 short years — a reminder of the fragility of life, and the power of one young person’s spirit to touch so many.
For Armuchee High, the loss is immeasurable, but the memory of David Clemones will remain forever in the hearts of his classmates, teammates, and all who loved him.
