COLUMBIA COUNTY, GA — June 29, 2025 — A tragic single-vehicle crash on Interstate 20 has claimed the life of 40-year-old Mario O’Bryant Mallory of White Plains, Georgia, and led to criminal charges against the driver involved. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office announced that Basheenia Lee, 48, of Hephzibah, Georgia, has been charged with second-degree vehicular homicide and failure to maintain lane following the fatal accident on May 29. The accident has left a community grieving and serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drowsy driving and the importance of seatbelt use.
Crash Details
The incident occurred at approximately 6:30 a.m. near mile marker 189, just west of Horizon South Parkway on Interstate 20. Lee was driving eastbound in her 1994 Chevrolet pickup truck when, according to her statement, she fell asleep at the wheel while traveling in the outside lane. Upon waking abruptly, Lee overcorrected her steering, causing her truck to swerve sharply across all lanes of traffic. The vehicle then collided with the north guardrail, sending it into a violent spin.
The impact was catastrophic. Lee’s pickup truck rebounded into traffic and struck a 2018 Kia Soul driven by 20-year-old Zacharia Nolen of Grovetown. Following the initial collision, the pickup truck rolled about three times. During the roll, Mario Mallory, who was not wearing a seatbelt at the time, was ejected from the vehicle. He sustained critical injuries and was transported to Doctors Hospital in Augusta. Sadly, despite efforts to save him, Mallory succumbed to his injuries on June 4.
Legal and Safety Concerns
Following the incident, Lee was arrested and booked on a felony charge of second-degree vehicular homicide, along with a traffic violation for failure to maintain lane. She was later released on a $2,200 bond. The Sheriff’s Office has highlighted driver fatigue as the primary cause of the crash, a dangerous and often underestimated factor in road safety. Additionally, investigators pointed out that Mallory’s failure to wear a seatbelt played a significant role in the severity of his injuries. If Mallory had been properly restrained, it is possible that his life could have been saved.
Further investigation revealed that Lee’s truck had a canceled registration and uncertain insurance coverage. It was also reported that the ownership of the vehicle had been transferred years earlier, raising further concerns about the condition and legality of the truck on the road that morning. These findings contribute to the already tragic circumstances of the crash, adding layers of negligence and disregard for public safety.
Community Impact
Mario Mallory, affectionately known as “Toot,” was a beloved and well-respected figure in the community. A 2004 graduate of Greene County High School, Mallory was known for his hard work and his entrepreneurial spirit. He worked at Jim Whitehead Tires in Evans and was the founder and owner of Mallory Auto Service, where he earned the respect and admiration of both his clients and employees. Mallory’s untimely death has left a deep hole in the hearts of his family, friends, and the local community.
“Toot was a great man, always full of life and energy,” said a close family friend. “He had such a kind soul and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. It’s hard to believe he’s gone, and the community won’t be the same without him.” His passing has brought immense grief to those who knew him, and his legacy will continue to live on in the work he did and the impact he had on those around him.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Message
As the investigation continues, authorities are emphasizing the importance of taking preventative measures against drowsy driving and ensuring all passengers wear their seatbelts. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with an accident reconstruction team, is conducting a detailed analysis of the crash to understand exactly how it unfolded. This process is critical in helping law enforcement provide clarity and justice in the case.
Authorities are also urging all drivers to recognize the dangers of drowsy driving, which, like impaired driving, significantly impairs reaction times, judgment, and motor skills. While many drivers understand the risks of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, fatigue can be just as dangerous. The incident in Columbia County serves as a tragic reminder of the life-threatening consequences that can result from driving while exhausted.
In addition to the dangers of driving while fatigued, the Sheriff’s Office continues to stress the critical importance of seatbelt use. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), wearing a seatbelt reduces the risk of fatal injury in a crash by up to 45%. The failure to wear a seatbelt was a contributing factor in Mario Mallory’s death, highlighting the need for constant vigilance when it comes to personal safety.
Looking Ahead: The Legal Process
The legal proceedings surrounding this tragic incident are still in the early stages. As of now, no formal trial date has been set for Basheenia Lee. She faces serious charges related to the crash, but it will be up to the courts to determine the exact outcome. Many members of the community are hoping for a fair trial and justice for Mario Mallory, who lost his life in such a senseless and avoidable manner.
Prosecutors have vowed to continue their investigation and gather more evidence before moving forward with the case. Lee’s legal team is expected to mount a defense, but the severity of the charges, combined with the circumstances of the crash, may lead to significant legal consequences. The community continues to watch closely as the case unfolds, and they remain committed to ensuring that justice is served for the victim and his grieving family.
A Final Thought: The Ripple Effect of Tragedy
The death of Mario Mallory has reverberated through the Columbia County community, leaving an impact that will not soon fade. For the Mallory family, the pain of losing a loved one so suddenly and tragically is immeasurable. Mario’s absence is felt not only by his family but also by the community that relied on his work and friendship. His death underscores the fragility of life and the devastating effects of preventable accidents.
As the legal process moves forward and the investigation continues, we are reminded of the importance of making safe choices on the road. Drowsy driving, failure to maintain lane, and neglecting basic safety measures like seatbelt use have life-altering consequences. This tragedy serves as a call to action for all drivers to be more mindful and cautious behind the wheel, for their safety and for the safety of others.
Our thoughts continue to be with the Mallory family as they navigate this painful time, and we hope that through justice and reflection, they can find some semblance of peace. Mario’s legacy will live on in the memories of those who loved him, and his life, though cut short, will continue to inspire those who knew him.
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