The crash occurred on Ebenezer Pickens Road on Saturday, August 9, 2025. Authorities said two vehicles collided, sparking flames and chaos.

Holmes County Sheriff Willie March said witnesses reported that one car was trying to pass the other, but it didn’t make it back into the lane in time.

One driver, Dwain Pelison, Jr., was unable to escape the fiery crash. His family said he was kind, protective and had a heart for service.

“He was what I call a jack of all trades. He loved to have fun in, you know, sports. I mean, he did it all,” said his father, Dwain Pelison, Sr.

Holmes County deputies are searching for the second driver, who they said fled the scene and left his passenger behind. The passenger is recovering in a local hospital.

The crash remains under investigation.