Thomson, GA – November 17, 2025 – The community of Thomson is mourning the death of 58-year-old Robert Butler Jr., who tragically passed away early Monday morning following a high-speed chase and crash. The incident, which began as a response to an armed robbery, has left investigators working to uncover more details surrounding the events that led to his death.
What Happened
At around 5:45 a.m. on November 17, McDuffie County deputies initiated a pursuit after Robert Butler, the alleged suspect in an armed robbery, failed to stop for a traffic stop. The chase, which took place on Dallas Drive, reached high speeds before Butler lost control of his vehicle while navigating a curve. The car rolled over, and Butler was thrown from the vehicle, landing in a nearby ditch.
Deputies were quick to respond, with one stopping in the eastbound lane to prevent further collisions, while another officer maneuvered into the ditch and unintentionally ended up on top of Butler with their patrol vehicle. Emergency personnel arrived at the scene, but despite their efforts, Butler was declared deceased at 6:45 a.m.
Investigation and Official Response
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) was called to the scene of the armed robbery, where Butler was identified as the alleged suspect. The Georgia State Patrol is also involved in the investigation of the crash. An autopsy is scheduled for later this week at the Georgia State Crime Lab to determine the precise cause of death.
While the details of the robbery remain unclear, the investigation into both the crime and the fatal crash is ongoing. Authorities are working to piece together the circumstances that led to the tragic outcome.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The high-speed chase and tragic crash have shaken the Thomson community, and local officials are continuing their work to ensure all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined. The McDuffie County Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies are urging anyone with information about the robbery or the events surrounding the chase to come forward.
Final Thoughts
The death of Robert Butler Jr. serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers involved in high-speed chases and the unpredictable consequences that can arise from such events. As the investigation continues, authorities are dedicated to uncovering the full details and ensuring justice is served.
This story may be updated with more information as the investigation progresses.
