AUGUSTA, GA — A devastating high-speed crash on Interstate 520 has left a Graniteville man in critical condition and a 63-year-old Augusta woman facing multiple felony charges, according to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred Tuesday morning around 10 a.m. near the Wrightsboro Road exit, when authorities say Daphna Collier, driving a 2016 Chrysler 300, was traveling at a dangerously high speed. Investigators report that Collier was recklessly changing lanes when she slammed into the rear of a 2018 GMC Savannah van, forcing the van off the road and causing it to roll multiple times.
The driver of the van, 33-year-old Donell Brown of Graniteville, S.C., sustained catastrophic injuries in the crash. Brown, a dedicated Family YMCA of Greater Augusta volunteer, was en route to pick up food from the Golden Harvest Food Bank—a routine act of service that underscored his commitment to the community.
Brown was transported urgently to Doctor’s Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery for severe internal bleeding, broken ribs, two broken legs, and a traumatic brain injury. He remains in the intensive care unit on a ventilator, with medical personnel reporting significant brain swelling. His condition is described as critical.
Collier has been charged with the following:
Serious injury by vehicle (felony)
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Reckless driving
Following too closely
Authorities confirmed that alcohol was a contributing factor in the crash, and further toxicology results are pending.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Augusta and Graniteville communities, where Donell Brown is widely admired for his selfless dedication to helping others. The Family YMCA of Greater Augusta released a brief statement saying, “Donell is not only a valued team member, he is family. We are devastated and praying for his recovery.”
The investigation remains active. Anyone with additional information or who may have witnessed the crash is encouraged to contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
As Brown fights for his life, local leaders and community members are calling for increased awareness around the dangers of impaired and reckless driving.
