Ambulance patient killed in crash with log truck

An elderly woman lost her life when the ambulance that was taking her to the hospital turned in front of a logging truck around 3 p.m. Monday, July 25.

Betty Gentry, 79, of Eatonton, succumbed to her injuries at Putnam General Hospital, according to Eatonton Police Sgt. Harold “Buddy” Bowman. Gentry reportedly was being

Gentry reportedly was being taken by a Gold Cross EMS ambulance from Augusta to Putnam General Hospital. As the ambulance approached the hospital, Bowman said, the driver, who was not familiar with the area, passed the hospital entrance and then attempted to turn left at the yield sign and crossed into the path of an oncoming Plains Logging Company tractor trailer.

Rescue operations were begun on Gentry at the scene and continued in the PGH Emergency Department, but she later succumbed to her injuries, Bowman said.

Both Gold Cross EMTs also were treated at the hospital for minor injuries.

The driver of the ambulance, Malik Germany, 23, of Hephzibah, will be charged with failure to yield and misdemeanor homicide by vehicle.