WHITE, Georgia- Perry Bell, the mayor of a northwest Georgia town passed away in a tragic motocross accident on Saturday. He was 54 years old. Read on to know how did mayor Perry Bell die, how did the accident happen, and what was the cause of his death.
Perry Bell took to the office just a few months ago, in June, precisely. He, unfortunately, passed away this past weekend in a terrible manner. The county is remembering him as a “thrill-loving” man who died what he loved doing.
Who was Mayor Perry Bell?
Perry Bell was the mayor of White, a town in Bartow County in Georgia. He was 54 years old and was lovingly referred to by his friends as “Giant Buddha.” His friends also revealed that he found joy in thrill-seeking activities such as off-road motorcycle racing, sky diving, base jumping, race car driving, and others.
Mr. Bell took office in June in an attempt to restore the mayor’s powers after many were transferred to a city manager and the previous mayor resigned. He was a passionate man who had plans to make the city a much better place for its residents.
How did Mayor Perry Bell die?
Mayor Perry Bell died on Saturday, September 24, 2022, while competing in a motocross accident on the Lazy River Motocross track near Dalton, Georgia. The freak crash took place when Bell wrecked and was struck by another rider at the track.
Murray County Deputy Coroner Jonathan Sosebee shared some details about the accident. “It was an unavoidable accident,” he said.
“From what I understand, he was on a jump and then he crashed on top of a jump. There was another rider right behind him and he was unable to do anything … he wasn’t able to see him to avoid it.”
What was the cause of Mayor Perry Bell’s death?
Mayor Perry Bell died of blunt force trauma to the chest after being rushed to a hospital in Chatsworth. He was pronounced dead on the scene and succumbed to the injuries sustained in the crash.
Sosebee stated that he was too severely injured to be evacuated by a helicopter. Hence, he was taken to the nearest medical facility where he passed away.
The other rider, who struck Bell, also sustained minor injuries. He was also taken to the hospital but was released hours later after precautionary treatment.
Officials are investigating the crash. However, no criminal charges have been filed yet. The initial investigation is treating the case as an unfortunate accident that can’t be avoided. There was no foul play involved in it.
Who will take over Mayoral Duties after Perry Bell’s Death?
Following Perry Bell’s death, White Mayor Pro Tem Gary Crisp will take over mayoral duties for the time being. He also revealed the details about the tragic crash that killed mayor Perry Bell.
“They brought a helicopter in, Flew him to a trauma center but he didn’t make it. He passed away. He was just a caring person for the community and just wanted to help the people who lived here.”
Crisp went on to state that the city will likely hold another special election to replace Bell.
The funeral arrangements and visitations for the late mayor are awaited at the time of writing. Our deepest condolences go out to his family in these grieving times. May God let his soul rest in peace.