Bond denied for suspect in child's death

Chief Superior Court Judge Brenda Weaver has denied bond for Hunter Ethan Elliott in a decision returned April 29.

Elliot is charged with the March 15, 2020, crash that claimed the life of two-year-old Cohen Bryson in Blue Ridge.

Following an April 24 hearing, Weaver ruled Elliott is a significant risk to flee, a significant threat and danger to the community, a significant risk of committing felony offenses, and a significant risk to intimidate witnesses.

Elliott was taken into custody and jailed immediately following the crash. Chief Magistrate Judge Brian Jones subsequently denied his bond during a first appearance hearing March 18.

At the time of the crash, the Georgia State Patrol report said the child was a backseat passenger in a 2008 Ford Escape stopped for the traffic light at the intersection of Highway 2 (Highway 515) and Blue Ridge Drive. The Escape was struck in the rear by a 2016 Ford Heavy Duty truck driven by Elliott.

After the crash warrants charged Elliot with the following:

•Misdemeanor, hit and run;

•Felony, homicide by vehicle, first degree;

•Misdemeanor, driving while license suspended/revoked;

•Two felony counts, serious injury by vehicle;

•Misdemeanor, distracted driving; restrictions on operation of wireless communication;

•Misdemeanor, open container violation;

•Misdemeanor, D.U.I./alcohol;

•Misdemeanor, improper exhaust system;

•Misdemeanor, glazing of windows;

•Misdemeanor, following too closely;

•Misdemeanor, reckless driving;

•Misdemeanor, obstruction of an officer;

•Misdemeanor, glazing of windows (second warrant); and,

•Misdemeanor, operating vehicle with altered suspension.