Decorated war veteran loses life in single-car accident

A decorated war veteran was laid to rest today following a single-car rollover crash late last month on Sinclair Dam Road.

Randy Alan Brooks, 58, served several tours of duty in the Middle East. He is survived by his wife, children and other family and friends, according to his obituary.

Brooks was traveling westbound on Sinclair Dam Road near the old Hidden Cove apartments when his 2008 Chevrolet Silverado flipped multiple times, according to the Georgia State Patrol accident report. The crash occurred around 1:30 in the afternoon on Saturday, Nov. 27. 

Added the accident report: (The Silverado) failed to maintain his lane and crossed the centerline into the east lane of travel...(The Silverado) traveled on the south shoulder for approximately 117 feet before striking a culvert. Due to impact, (the Silverado) started to rotate counterclockwise as it overturned in the air. (The Silverado) then landed on its passenger side and continued to overturn on its roof."

Also, according to the accident report, Brooks was "not wearing a seatbelt" and was "ejected out of the rear passenger window as the vehicle overturned." 

Brooks was at least somewhat conscious when first responders arrived and "stated that he was trying to avoid a collision with 3 deer that were in the roadway." Brooks was rushed to an area hospital.

He passed away on the evening of Nov. 30, according to the accident report.