COLUMBUS, Georgia — The city of Columbus is in mourning following a tragic single-vehicle accident that resulted in the loss of a respected local physician near Lakebottom Park.
The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. on Cherokee Avenue, close to Country Club Road. According to reports from the Columbus Police Department, the vehicle unexpectedly veered off the roadway and came to rest in a nearby ditch. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but the driver was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan identified the driver as Dr. Gilbert Maulsby. Well-known in Columbus for his years of dedicated service in the medical field, Dr. Maulsby was retired but remained an important figure in the local community. His passing has left a noticeable void among friends, former patients, and colleagues.
The Columbus Police Department’s Motor Squad is conducting an active investigation into the cause of the crash. Authorities have not released specific details regarding contributing factors, such as weather conditions, vehicle malfunction, or a possible medical emergency. Police are urging anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.
Residents familiar with the area describe Cherokee Avenue as a generally quiet road, though careful driving is always required due to its proximity to parks and residential neighborhoods. This event has sparked renewed conversations around road safety and attentiveness while driving.
In the days following the accident, local organizations, medical colleagues, and community members have shared tributes highlighting Dr. Maulsby’s dedication, compassion, and years of service. Many remember him as a kind and approachable physician who made a lasting impact on countless lives throughout Columbus.
The community has come together to support the family, respecting their request for privacy as they grieve. Memorial plans have not yet been announced, but neighbors and friends have begun placing flowers and messages near the accident site as a show of solidarity and remembrance.
As the investigation continues, officials emphasize the importance of remaining alert and cautious while driving in all conditions. They remind the public that information, no matter how small, can aid in understanding what led to this tragic event.
Dr. Maulsby’s legacy lives on not only through his family but also in the many lives he touched professionally and personally. His contributions to Columbus’s healthcare community will be remembered with respect and gratitude.
