A 21-year-old University of Georgia student died late last month after being struck by his own vehicle, authorities said. He is now being remembered by loved ones for his faith, compassion, and sense of purpose.
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department responded to a single-vehicle crash in the 300 block of Peabody Street during the early evening of Jan. 28, according to a police news release.
Following an investigation, police said the victim, later identified as 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 said the truck continued moving backward, striking an unoccupied vehicle before stopping after colliding with a tree.
Whittenburg died two days later at a hospital. The investigation remains ongoing.
According to his obituary, Whittenburg grew up in Austin, Texas, and was a third-year student at the University of Georgia studying accounting.
“Shortly after arriving at college, George began to dedicate his time ministering to others in the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, prisoners pursuing recovery at The Potter’s House, Cru missions, and in his everyday interactions with others,” the obituary states. “George became a man committed to serving our Lord with sacrificial joy, willing to go wherever God called him.”
Loved ones described him as “disarmingly vulnerable yet courageous … both humble and wise,” noting his ability to balance lightheartedness with a deep sense of reverence.
According to the obituary, Whittenburg was in his driveway preparing to meet friends for dinner and basketball on Jan. 28 when the incident occurred.
He is survived by his parents and two sisters.
“We bear witness to that truth, remember George’s legacy, and celebrate that God’s work in George on earth was completed. We take comfort knowing that George is now restored and rejoicing in the arms of Jesus,” the obituary reads.
On Feb. 2, hundreds gathered for a prayer vigil at the Sigma Phi Epsilon house in Athens, as reported by The Red & Black. Whittenburg was a member of the fraternity.
“He fulfilled his purpose,” said Wells Muller, president of Sigma Phi Epsilon, according to The Red & Black.
“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 said. “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.”
