April 17, 2025–9:45 p.m.

-Staff reports-

The 11-year-old son of a Rome Police Officer has died from injuries he sustained after being struck by a pickup truck in Silver Creek Thursday afternoon.

Emergency crews responded to the area of Timberwood Drive and Ramblewood Drive.

According to dispatch from Floyd County 911, a school bus driver reported that a juvenile had been struck by a red Toyota Tacoma (the school bus was not involved).

According to a statement from the Rome Police Department:

We are deeply saddened to confirm a tragic accident that occurred earlier today, resulting in the death of a juvenile who is the child of one of our officers.

At 3:54 pm, emergency personnel responded to a call regarding a motor vehicle accident in the Silver Creek area of Floyd County. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by first responders, the young victim succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is leading the investigation into the circumstances of the crash, and any further details will be released by the GBI.  Additionally, counselors from the Floyd County School System will be available to students and staff impacted by this tragedy.

“This is an unimaginable loss for one of our own,” said Denise Downer-McKinney, Chief of the Rome Police Department. “Our department is heartbroken and stands united in grief with the family. We ask the community to lift them up in every possible way during this incredibly difficult time.”

No additional details are being released out of respect for the family’s privacy.

The Rome Police Department wishes to thank our law enforcement and emergency service partners, as well as the community, for their compassion and support.