Moment of silence for Pickens Co. teen killed in crash

PICKENS COUNTY, Ga. - The Pickens County High School football team gathered Monday morning as its members mourn the loss of a teammate. 

Jordan Simonds, 16, died over the weekend in a single-car accident on Salem Church Road. He was a sophomore at Pickens County High, a beloved member of the community and played on the defensive line for the Dragons football team.  Dragons Football. 

Simonds wore the #39 and the school held a moment of silence for him at 8:39 a.m. Monday.

The Georgia State Patrol will be conducting the investigation into the crash.

A male passenger was also injured in the accident and was transported to Kennestone Hospital for treatment. Officials have not released the name of the passenger, but said he was alert and talking to first responders on the scene.

Sunday night, hundreds of people filled the stands at the high school for a memorial in Simonds' honor.

"[He was] always smiling and kind of friendly to all different people on the team--one of those guys that everybody kind of liked, had a great personality, just a joy to coach," said Chris Parker, head football coach and athletic director. 

Visitations will be held at Roper Funeral Home from 3:00-9:00 p.m. Monday and 9:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Tuesday.  Simonds' funeral will be Wednesday at Mount Zion Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. 

School officials said additional counselors are on hand at Pickens High School for students and faculty.

The cause of the accident has not yet been released.

NEXT ARTICLE: Sheriff: Massive 'pill house' and gambling operation busted