A Joyful Journey Cut Tragically Short
Zaquan George, 21, and Maggie Erdie, 19, were more than just victims of a terrible accident—they were young souls with promising futures ahead. On January 3rd, 2024, a routine drive turned into a fatal encounter on Interstate 79 in Monongalia County, when an act of road rage led to a crash that claimed their lives. What should have been a simple trip ended in heartbreak, tearing apart families and a community that loved them dearly. Both Zaquan and Maggie were vibrant young adults, full of hope and dreams, now silenced far too soon.
Road Rage: A Deadly Collision with Lasting Consequences
The collision was not a mere accident but a result of dangerous and reckless behavior. Thomas Horner, III, was found guilty of deliberately forcing the vehicle carrying Zaquan and Maggie off the road, sparking a violent crash. Witnesses at the scene described Horner’s aggressive driving maneuvers, which pushed the car out of control, causing it to cross the median and collide head-on with another vehicle. The crash did not only take two lives but left two other motorists seriously injured, marking a tragic day defined by avoidable violence on the road.
This case shines a harsh light on the deadly consequences of road rage—a preventable menace that claims lives and shatters families in seconds. Justice is moving forward with Horner facing significant jail time and fines, but nothing can truly undo the loss endured by the victims’ families.
Honoring Zaquan and Maggie: Remembering Their Legacy
As sentencing awaits, the community and loved ones continue to grieve the tragic loss of Zaquan George and Maggie Erdie. Their memory serves as a solemn reminder of the preciousness of life and the fragility of safety on the roads. Detective Josh Ward and Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Rob Zak have praised the courage of the witnesses who came forward, helping ensure accountability in this heartbreaking case.
Though Zaquan and Maggie are gone, their spirit lives on in the hearts of those who loved them. Their story is a call to action to all drivers—to practice patience and caution, and to reject anger behind the wheel. Their lives may have been cut short, but their legacy demands safer roads and a deeper respect for human life.
