CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — Five people, including two children, were hospitalized Tuesday night following a two-vehicle crash in Clarkesville that drew multiple emergency agencies to the scene.

According to the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 8:30 p.m. near the intersection of Washington Street and Old Historic U.S. 441. Preliminary reports indicate that one vehicle attempting to turn left was struck by an oncoming car traveling northbound. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles and briefly shut down the roadway as crews worked to clear debris.

Habersham County Emergency Services confirmed that five individuals sustained injuries of varying severity. Two children were among those transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville for further evaluation. None of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening, though one adult passenger suffered a possible broken leg.

“Responders arrived to find two heavily damaged vehicles and multiple patients,” said Habersham County EMS Director Chad Black. “Our teams worked quickly to triage and stabilize everyone on scene before transport.”

Fire and rescue crews from Clarkesville and Demorest assisted with the response, while Georgia State Patrol is leading the investigation. Early indications suggest that driver error and low visibility due to rain may have contributed to the crash, but troopers say toxicology tests and vehicle data will determine if other factors were involved.

The roadway reopened shortly after 10 p.m., though law enforcement urged drivers to exercise caution, particularly in evening hours when visibility decreases.

Residents nearby described hearing “a loud bang” followed by sirens. “We came outside and saw people helping kids out of one of the cars,” said a witness who lives near the intersection. “It was scary, but everyone jumped in to help.”

This marks at least the third major wreck in Habersham County within two weeks, following recent accidents in Demorest and along GA 15 near Hollywood Hills Road. Authorities continue to stress safe driving, particularly along busy corridors where traffic has increased due to ongoing construction and detours.