Two high school graduates and father killed after tree falls on car

BURKE COUNTY, Ga. — Two high school graduates and a father were killed when a large tree fell onto their car, authorities said.

Kencerio Deontae Walker, his girlfriend Nykeria Laniya Johnson, and Kencerio’s father James Walker died last Saturday night after the tree collapsed across both lanes and struck their blue Ford Taurus, according to the Burke County Sheriff’s Office.

WSB-TV reports the crash happened just two days after Kencerio and Nykeria graduated from Swainsboro High School.

Deputies responding around 9 p.m. found the Walkers and Johnson dead inside the vehicle. A second car, a black Jeep Cherokee driven by an 18‑year‑old, was also hit by the falling tree. The driver survived with minor injuries.

Beloved Members of Swainsboro

The Walkers and Johnson were remembered as beloved members of their community and church community.

Swainsboro High School held a candelight calling the deaths a “heartbreaking loss.”

Fundraisers Launched

GoFundMe pages have been created to support the Walker family and Johnson’s family with funeral and related expenses.