Georgia man killed by train remembered as a hero after saving friend

SCOTTDALE, Ga. — A Georgia family is mourning the loss of 38‑year‑old Brent Davis, who was struck and killed by a train on Feb. 10 while trying to save a woman trapped in his stalled car. His relatives say his final act reflected the way he lived — selfless, protective, and devoted to the people he loved.

According to 11Alive, Davis’ father, Stanley Davis, has spent the past several days in prayer and reflection as he tries to process the sudden loss.

“It seemed as though to me that he really looked at me in a special way whenever he saw me,” he told the station, tears falling as he spoke.

A Final Call Before the Crash

DeKalb County Police told 11Alive Brent died after a CSX train hit his vehicle near Ponce de Leon Avenue and Clarendon Avenue. His father said he had spoken with him only minutes earlier.

“He told me his car had broken down on the train tracks,” Davis said. “Before he could tell me anymore, the young lady he was with, she was talking, and he said, ‘Dad, let me call you back,’ and that was the last time I heard from him.”

Investigators said Brent was trying to pull the woman from the car when the train approached. She survived but was critically injured.

A Protector in Life and in Death

Family members told 11Alive that Brent was the second oldest of six children and a musician. They described him as a natural leader who checked on relatives daily.

“It came as no surprise that he did what he did because he was that kind of person,” his father said. “Very protective and a leader and caring about others.”

Davis said his son’s final act gives him strength.

“In what he did makes me proud. It gives me strength to keep fighting. And doing what I know he would want me to do,” he told 11Alive. “And that’s moving on and praying to God to give us the strength to get through this time in our lives and never forgetting our son.”

A Family Seeking Help With Burial Costs

The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral and burial expenses. The fundraiser describes Brent as “one of the most giving people” they knew. Moreover, a man who “never hesitated to put others before himself.”

According to the GoFundMe, Brent “died doing what he always did best — protecting someone he cared about.” The family wrote that his death “has left a huge hole in our hearts,” and they are asking for support as they navigate the sudden loss.

A Community Honors a Hero

As the investigation continues, Brent’s family hopes he will be remembered for his courage and compassion. They say his final moments reflect a lifetime of putting others first.

“He died a hero,” his father said.

To learn more or support, visit the verified GoFundMe.