Great-grandfather killed by hit-and-run driver

DAWSON COUNTY, Ga. - A community is mourning the loss of a beloved great-grandfather known to many in Dawson County and calling for the driver responsible for his death to be captured by authorities.

Bobby Eugene Wells, 80, was killed 7:30 p.m. Monday as he crossed Dawson Forest Road from Chestatee Worship Center to head to his home, Georgia State Patrol investigators said.

Police said Wells died at the scene and the driver fled. Witnesses said the vehicle, which struck Wells head-on, suffered damage and left debris behind. Georgia State Patrol did not release a description of the wanted vehicle or driver.

"Why? Why did that happen to an 80-year-old man trying to walk home? He would never hurt a person in his life," said grieving son Eric Wells, who told FOX 5 his father loved caring for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The death has also struck a chord in the tight-knit Dawson County community. Members of the Chestatee Worship Center have offered prayers and condolences to the Wells family, where his grandson attends church.

Anyone with information on the hit-and-run driver and the vehicle is asked to contact the Georgia State Patrol at 770-535-6922.