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Father and son die after tree falls on them at golf course in Muscogee County, coroner says

The #13 green at the Bull Creek Golf Course west course in 2015.
The #13 green at the Bull Creek Golf Course west course in 2015. rtrimarchi@ledger-enquirer.com

A father and son are dead after a tree fell on them Sunday at a Muscogee County golf course, according to Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan.

Bryan said 58-year-old Matthew Terrell Collins Sr. and his son, 29-year-old Matthew Terrell Collins Jr., were pronounced dead at 6:06 p.m. Sunday at Bull Creek Golf Course in Midland. Bryan said both men were from Harris County.

Storms swept through Georgia Sunday afternoon causing thunderstorms in the area.

Bryan said the victims were playing golf and took refuge under a tree while in their golf cart. The storm caused the tree to fall on them resulting in blunt force trauma, according to Bryan.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp took to X to make a statement about the deaths.

“Marty, the girls, and I are saddened by the tragic deaths of two Georgians in Muscogee County today as a result of the severe weather,” Bryan said. “We ask that you join us in keeping their loved ones in our thoughts and prayers, along with all those responding to storm damage.”

This story was originally published April 7, 2025 at 8:30 AM.

Kelby Hutchison
Columbus Ledger-Enquirer
Kelby Hutchison is the breaking news reporter for the Ledger-Enquirer. Originally from Dothan, Alabama, Kelby grew up frequently visiting Columbus to eat at Country’s BBQ in the old Greyhound bus station and at Clearview BBQ on River Road. He graduated from the University of Alabama with a B.A. in criminal justice and a M.A. in journalism. During his studies, Kelby specialized in community journalism.
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