Franklin County Sheriff’s Deputy Killed in I-85 Wreck

Officers with the Georgia State Patrol are assisting Franklin County 911 dispatchers this morning after a wreck on I-85 took the life of Franklin County Sheriff’s Deputy Cruz Thomas.

Thomas is the son of Franklin County Sheriff Stevie Thomas.

It happened about 9p on I-85 northbound near mile marker 163.

Witnesses told troopers deputy Thomas was traveling northbound in pursuit of a traffic violator when an 18-wheeler suddenly changed lanes in front of him, pushing  officer Thomas’ cruiser into the median.

Thomas lost control. His cruiser traveled back across both northbound lanes, off the roadway and then struck a tree.  Officer Thomas was ejected and died at the scene, according to troopers on the scene.

911 Dispatchers in Carnesville handled the calls last night and are devastated.  Thomas had once worked as a 911 dispatcher before becoming a law enforcement officer.

“We work with families losing family members all the time,” said dispatcher Joy Davis, “But when it’s one of our own, it really hits home. Cruz will be greatly missed.”

Sgt. 1st Class Al Whitworth of Georgia State Patrol Post 7 in Toccoa tells Access North Georgia troopers will be assisting dispatchers.

“Right now, State Troopers – due to the emotional thing that’s going on in Franklin County – will be assisting Franklin County with its calls throughout the night and then for the next few days,” Whitworth said.