NORTH FORSYTH — The driver in one of the two fatal crashes that occurred Friday in north Forsyth likely will face charges, authorities said.
The wrecks, which occurred about six hours and several miles apart, each claimed the life of a woman. The victims’ names were released Saturday by the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office.
Killed in the wreck was 69-year-old Andrea Phebus of Cumming. The collision happened about 11:30 a.m. when the red Hyundai Santa Fe she was driving was struck head on by a blue Toyota Tacoma on Keith Bridge Road (Hwy. 306) near Leland Drive in northeast Forsyth.
Phebus was pronounced dead at the scene. The pickup truck was driven by 65-year-old Robert Carlson of Dahlonega, according to the sheriff’s office.
Carlson was taken to an area hospital by medical helicopter with what were reported as serious injuries. According to the sheriff’s office, he was in stable condition as of the most recent update.
As of Tuesday, specific charges had not been finalized, said Robin Regan, a spokesman for the sheriff’s office, though initial reports did not indicate speed was a factor.
Carlson’s truck apparently crossed the centerline before colliding with the other vehicle.
Friday’s second fatal wreck occurred about 3 p.m. on Matt Highway (Hwy. 369) and Dr. Bramblett Road northwest of Cumming.
Natalie Barnard, 20, of Snoqualmie, Wash., was pronounced dead at the scene.
She had been driving a Ford Fusion that reportedly pulled onto Matt Highway in front of a tractor trailer.
Barnard had been serving in the Georgia Atlanta North Mission since October, according to Eric Hawkins, a spokesman with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Utah.
“We extend our love and prayers on behalf of their families and loved ones at this difficult time,” Hawkins said.
Barnard’s family provided the following statement:
“As a family, we are deeply saddened by the loss of our loving daughter, sister and granddaughter. On behalf of our entire family, we wish to express our love and appreciation for all of the support and prayers that have been offered in the wake of this tragic loss.
“Her loving family and all of her friends will miss her larger-than-life smile and the radiance that made her instantly lovable. In this tragic time, our comfort comes from our belief that Natalie is with our Heavenly Father and that she continues the Lord’s work with the same vigor with which she entered the mission field.
“Natalie was driven by a deep conviction to serve a mission. She loved the people of Georgia and served them faithfully. She would not have wanted to be anywhere else than serving in the Georgia Atlanta North Mission. We love our Savior, Jesus Christ, and we know that through him and his eternal sacrifice that we’ll someday soon see our beloved Natalie again.
“It is with this knowledge that we have the comfort and courage necessary to mourn and celebrate the life of our dear Natalie.”
Barnard’s passenger, 19-year-old Rachel Beckstrom of Tooele, Utah, was flown to a hospital in critical condition. Her condition Tuesday could not immediately be determined.
The tractor trailer was driven by 70-year-old James Davis of Old Fort, Tenn., who was not injured.
No charges are expected in the second crash, according to the sheriff’s office.