Tragic Hit and Run at Gilmer Park

According to authorities on Friday evening, May 30th a hit and run occurred near the tennis courts at the Gilmer County River Park at approximately 9pm. Sadly a small child was seriously injured. The Ellijay Police Department immediately sought the public’s help to find info which would help identify the driver of the hit and run car. They were searching for a light grey sedan believed to be a Ford Fusion. According to reports the child’s father was transferring the child from a stroller into a van when the accident occurred.

Saturday morning the Georgia State Patrol arrested a 26-year-old male in Cherokee County. The arrest is a result of coordinated efforts between Ellijay Police, the Gilmer Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia State Patrol and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s office.

The alleged driver is Jordan Allen Hyde and was held in the Gilmer County Detention center on two charges; leaving the scene of an accident/hit and run ($1000 bond) and serious injury by vehicle ($5000 bond). Mr. Hyde bonded out on those charges.

The toddler, identified as Noah Pinson, was transported via lift flight to Scottish Rite Hospital in Atlanta and was treated for serious injuries sustained in the hit and run. Tragically the child did not survive. The suspect was re-arrested and charges upgraded to First Degree Homicide by Vehicle and DUI Drugs which do not carry a bond. Additionally the sheriff’s office has charged Hyde with two counts of Financial Transaction card Fraud.

FYN will update as soon as more information becomes available. The family has asked everyone to please continue to keep them in your prayers.