CRISP COUNTY, Ga. — 7‑year‑old Za’riah Ward and 30‑year‑old Jaylan Bell were killed Oct. 31 in a high‑speed crash on Georgia Highway 300 near Coney Road. Their families demand justice as criminal proceedings move forward.

Investigators said a white Jeep Cherokee struck the vehicle carrying Ward and Bell. Suspect Bailey Green was in the vehicle, and authorities note he was suspected of driving while intoxicated. Reports also said Gracie Watts, Za’riah’s mother and Bell’s fiancée, was also in the car and survived.

Authorities alleged Green was traveling about 98 mph in a 65-mph zone when the collision occurred. First responders found the 7-year-old lodged in the back seat where they had to excavate her, officials said. Despite rescue efforts, Za’riah and Bell were pronounced dead at the scene.

These reports noted a chaotic aftermath when mother and fiancée Gracie Watts repeatedly cried, “my baby, not my baby,” after she survived the accident and rescue efforts ensued to free her daughter.

Court records show Green faced reckless driving and open container charges in Thomas County on July 17. Victims’ families call this a troubling pattern.

Police said Green admitted drinking multiple beers before driving at the scene and that a partially consumed Twisted Tea alcoholic beverage was found near the wrecked Jeep Cherokee. Officers said Green refused a blood test at the scene; which prompted a search warrant.

Court filings list Green’s charges:

• Two counts of Homicide by Vehicle in the First Degree
• Two counts of Serious Injury by Vehicle
• Possession of an Open Container in the Vehicle Passenger Area
• Failure to Maintain Lane
• Reckless Driving
• Failure to Use a Safety Belt in a Passenger Vehicle and Driving Under the Influence

Green accepted a $115,200 bond but if he’s convicted he could face up to 15 years in prison.

WALB’s Moriah Norman will have more details in our later newscasts. Stay with us.

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