Bernedine Spann Car Accident – In a tragic and devastating event on the night of Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 32-year-old Bernedine Spann and two of her children lost their lives in a head-on collision on Highway 82 in Lee County, Georgia. The accident, caused by a wrong-way driver, has left the local community in deep mourning.
Details of the Crash
According to investigators with the Georgia State Patrol, 41-year-old Sherita Goddard was driving her Hyundai Tucson in the wrong direction when she collided head-on with the Spann family’s Honda Accord. Bernedine Spann and her 13-year-old daughter, Ja’Leah Spann, were pronounced dead at the scene. Her 7-year-old son, Jaxton Spann, was critically injured and airlifted to a nearby hospital, where he tragically passed away on Sunday, January 18. Bernedine Spann is survived by another son, who was not present in the vehicle at the time of the accident.
Suspected DUI and Legal Investigation
Authorities suspect that Goddard was driving under the influence at the time of the crash. Both Goddard and her daughter, who was a passenger in her vehicle, sustained injuries and were hospitalized. The Georgia State Patrol continues to investigate the incident to determine the full circumstances leading to the collision.
Community and School Support
The loss has reverberated throughout Lee County and the surrounding areas. Rodney Coleman, a close friend of the family, established a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses and provide support for the surviving child. Meanwhile, the Randolph County School System is offering counseling services to help students and staff cope with the sudden loss of Ja’Leah and Jaxton Spann.
Remembering Bernedine Spann and Her Children
Bernedine Spann was remembered by friends and family as a devoted mother and a caring member of her community. Her children, Ja’Leah and Jaxton, were described as bright and loving, with Ja’Leah excelling in her eighth-grade studies and Jaxton thriving in second grade. The family’s untimely deaths have left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of loved ones and neighbors.
Ongoing Impact
The tragedy has prompted discussions about highway safety, the dangers of impaired driving, and the importance of community support during times of grief. Local leaders and law enforcement are urging drivers to exercise caution and remain vigilant to prevent further loss of life.