A 21-year-old student at the University of Georgia died after being struck by his own vehicle in Athens late last month, according to authorities. The tragic incident, which remains under investigation, has left the campus community mourning a young man remembered for his faith, leadership, and commitment to serving others.
Single-Vehicle Incident on Peabody Street
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department responded to a reported single-vehicle crash in the 300 block of Peabody Street during the early evening hours of Jan. 28.
Following an initial investigation, police said George Whittenburg was standing outside the driver’s side door of his parked 2018 Toyota Tundra when the vehicle “began rolling in reverse, striking and rolling over him.”
Authorities stated that after hitting Whittenburg, the truck continued moving backward, striking an unoccupied vehicle before eventually stopping when it collided with a tree.
Whittenburg was transported to a hospital, where he died two days later from his injuries. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing.
A Third-Year Accounting Student with a Heart for Service
Whittenburg, who grew up in Austin, Texas, was a third-year accounting student at the University of Georgia. Beyond academics, he was deeply involved in campus and faith-based activities.
According to his obituary, he dedicated his time to ministering to fellow students in the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, supporting individuals in recovery at The Potter’s House, and participating in Cru missions.
“George became a man committed to serving our Lord with sacrificial joy, willing to go wherever God called him,” his obituary states. “George’s intimate relationship with God, particularly at such a young age, was a blessing to all around him.”
Community and Fraternity Remember His Legacy
On Feb. 2, hundreds gathered at the Sigma Phi Epsilon house in Athens for a prayer vigil held in Whittenburg’s memory, The Red & Black reported.
Wells Muller, president of Sigma Phi Epsilon, reflected on Whittenburg’s influence within the fraternity and beyond.
“He fulfilled his purpose,” Muller said. “He mentored younger generations. He loved and cared for God’s creation, because he loved to fly fish. But all that being said, he has touched all of our lives.”
Muller added that Whittenburg’s life serves as a reminder to value relationships and faith.
“I hope this is a wake up call for a lot of us all, from our hearts, to love one another, foster each other’s friendships and more importantly, find your faith in God,” he said.
Loved ones described Whittenburg in his obituary as “disarmingly vulnerable yet courageous … both humble and wise,” noting that he balanced light-hearted joy with deep reverence.
Investigation Continues
Police have not released additional details about what caused the truck to begin rolling. Authorities confirmed that the case remains under investigation.
According to his obituary, Whittenburg had been in his driveway and was preparing to meet friends for dinner and basketball when the incident occurred.
He is survived by his parents and two sisters. His family expressed comfort in their faith, writing that they celebrate his life and legacy while grieving his loss.
Remembering a Life of Purpose
The sudden loss of George Whittenburg has deeply impacted the University of Georgia community, particularly those who knew him through his fraternity and ministry work.
As investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the accident, friends and family say they will remember him not for the tragedy, but for the faith, courage, and compassion that defined his life.