Father, son killed by falling tree during storm in Georgia

Matthew Terrell Collins Sr., 58, and his son, police officer Matthew Terrell Collins Jr., 29, tragically died at Bull Creek Golf Course in Midland, Georgia, when a tree fell on their golf cart during a storm on April 6. They had sought refuge under the tree as heavy rain and damaging winds swept through the area, leading to widespread destruction across the South and Midwest, where at least 20 fatalities have been reported due to weather-related incidents since April 2. The Muscogee County Coroner confirmed the cause of death as blunt force trauma, and a GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist with funeral expenses, exceeding its initial $20,000 goal. The Columbus Police Department expressed their condolences, highlighting Collins Jr.'s dedication to the community and his service as an officer. The loss has deeply impacted family and friends, with tributes reflecting on the strong bond between the father and son. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, as local officials express their sympathies for the grieving family.