A Northeast Georgia minister died, and his wife was injured when a deer ran into the path of their motorcycle in Franklin County Sunday night.
The wreck happened at 7:37 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, on Ga. 8/U.S. 29 at Bennetts Circle near Royston in Franklin County, according to Georgia State Patrol Post 52 in Hartwell.
Post 52 identified the victims as Justin Lee Baskins, 37, of Carnesville and his wife, Sara Baskins, also 37 of Carnesville.
The 2019 Harley-Davidson driven by Justin Baskins was traveling north on Ga. 8/U.S. 29 when a deer entered the path of it from the northbound shoulder, according to GSP. The motorcycle struck the deer with its front, which resulted in the driver and passenger being thrown from the motorcycle.
Justin Baskins was airlifted to Greenville Memorial Hospital, where he died. Sara Baskins suffered minor injuries and was taken for treatment, according to GSP.
Justin Baskins was pastor of Providence Baptist Church in Danielsville and served as chaplain at St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital in Lavonia.
A memorial service for Justin Baskins will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, at Providence Baptist Church in Danielsville. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until the service. Pruitt Funeral Home of Royston is in charge of arrangements.
