James Oates Obituary, Death – The Fort Valley Police Department is actively investigating a fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a 66-year-old man early Wednesday morning. According to Peach County Coroner Kerry Rooks, the victim has been identified as James Oates.
The tragic incident occurred around 2 a.m. along Highway 96 near Braswell Street. Oates was reportedly pushing a shopping cart along the roadway when he was struck by a vehicle. Authorities say the vehicle involved did not stop after the collision. Emergency responders were called to the scene, but despite efforts to assist, Oates was pronounced dead approximately 30 minutes later.
Rooks confirmed that the driver responsible for the fatal crash fled the scene, and the vehicle involved has not yet been identified. Investigators are now working to obtain surveillance footage from the area in hopes of identifying the make and model of the vehicle, as well as its driver.
Police are urging anyone with possible information, including witnesses or those with access to video footage from the area around the time of the incident, to come forward. Tipsters are encouraged to contact the Fort Valley Police Department at 478-825-3383.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to piece together the events that led to the fatal collision. Rooks expressed condolences to the family of James Oates and emphasized the importance of community support in helping to solve the case.
At this time, no suspects have been named, and no arrests have been made. The police department continues to ask the public for assistance, hoping that someone may have seen the vehicle or has information that could lead to an arrest.
The Fort Valley community has been left shaken by the incident, which occurred on a relatively quiet stretch of road during the early morning hours. Highway 96, a well-traveled route through the town, was temporarily closed as investigators documented the scene and collected evidence.
Rooks stated that the location and circumstances of the crash suggest that visibility may have been low at the time, but regardless, leaving the scene of an accident, especially one resulting in death, is a serious criminal offense.
As law enforcement continues its search for the hit-and-run driver, the family and loved ones of James Oates are left mourning a tragic and unexpected loss. The police have pledged to pursue all leads to bring justice for Oates and closure to his grieving family.
In the meantime, authorities encourage drivers to remain vigilant and responsible, especially during the late-night and early-morning hours when visibility is reduced. The Fort Valley Police Department remains committed to solving this case and ensuring accountability for the actions that led to this avoidable tragedy.
