Community Rallies Around Family After Crash Kills Monroe Grandfather, Injures Grandson

GoFundMe established to help with funeral and hospital expenses after tragic accident involving ambulance.

Mar. 20, 2026 at 3:21am

A 66-year-old Monroe man, John Carter Martin, was killed and his grandson Conner Schoon was severely injured when an ambulance crashed into their vehicles on the side of the road in Oconee County, Georgia. The community has rallied around the family, with Martin's granddaughter Kelsey Boyd starting a GoFundMe to help cover funeral costs and Conner's medical expenses as he recovers.

Why it matters

This tragic accident highlights the risks faced by Good Samaritans who stop to assist others on the roadside, as well as the financial burdens that can fall on families after such unexpected and devastating events. The community's response shows the importance of coming together to support those in need during difficult times.

The details

According to the Georgia State Patrol, the crash occurred on March 15 when Martin had stopped to help his grandson, who was driving a disabled Toyota Camry on Atlanta Highway. As Martin and his grandson were outside their vehicles, a Northeast Georgia Medical Center ambulance traveling westbound struck the Camry from behind, causing all three vehicles to leave the roadway. Martin was pronounced dead at the scene, while his grandson was seriously injured and transported to the hospital.

  • The crash occurred around 9:53 p.m. on March 15, 2026.
  • Martin's granddaughter Kelsey Boyd started the GoFundMe on March 20, 2026.

The players

John Carter Martin

A 66-year-old man from Monroe, Georgia who was killed in the crash while assisting his grandson.

Conner Schoon

Martin's grandson who was critically injured in the crash and is now in stable condition but facing a long recovery.

Kelsey Boyd

Martin's granddaughter who started a GoFundMe to help cover funeral costs and her brother's medical expenses.

Northeast Georgia Medical Center

The medical center that operated the ambulance involved in the fatal crash.

Georgia State Patrol

The law enforcement agency investigating the crash.

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What they’re saying

“Anything you can donate would help my family out greatly. Even if you can't donate at this time, please continue to pray. I'm asking for funds to go towards Conner's hospital bills, future rehab, and therapy. Along with that, any help with my Papa's funeral expenses would be greatly appreciated.”

— Kelsey Boyd, Martin's granddaughter

What’s next

The Georgia State Patrol's Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team is continuing to investigate the crash, and charges are pending the conclusion of their investigation.

The takeaway

This tragic accident underscores the risks faced by Good Samaritans who stop to assist others, as well as the financial burdens that can fall on families after such unexpected and devastating events. The community's outpouring of support for the Martin family shows the importance of coming together to help those in need during difficult times.