Tragic Collision Claims Lives of January Hartley and William Swint in Martinez, Georgia – September 22, 2025

In Martinez, Georgia, a devastating high-speed crash on September 22, 2025, resulted in the deaths of 68-year-old William Swint and his 42-year-old stepdaughter, January Hartley, both residents of the community. According to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, the accident occurred around 5:45 p.m. on Washington Road near Caribe Drive. Investigators determined that a gray Ford Bronco traveling at a high rate of speed crossed into oncoming traffic, colliding head-on with a gray Ford Focus. The impact caused the Focus to overturn onto a nearby Kia Forte.

Authorities confirmed that Swint and Hartley, occupants of the Ford Focus, were pronounced dead at the scene. The drivers of the Bronco and Forte were transported to Doctors Hospital with injuries. No charges have been filed at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing. The tragedy has reignited local concern about reckless driving and inadequate traffic control in Columbia County, as residents continue to call for stricter enforcement and improved safety measures along Washington Road.