‘An angel on Earth.’ Byron grieves 9-year-old killed while riding bike

The Peach County School District is mourning the loss of a Byron Elementary School student who died last week following a bicycle accident.

Nine-year-old Abigail Ray died on May 8, one day after she was struck by an SUV while riding her bicycle in a Byron neighborhood. Authorities said Ray was transported in critical condition to a nearby children’s hospital, where she later died.

The school district shared a statement on social media Monday.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of our students, Abigail Ray, a fourth-grade student at Byron Elementary School,” the district said. “Abigail passed away on Thursday, May 8, 2025. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with her family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

“Thank you for your compassion and continued support as we navigate this loss together and support one another as a community,” the school district said, sharing Ray’s online obituary.

Byron Police Department Capt. Bryan Hunter confirmed Ray’s identity Monday as the victim involved in the incident.

Byron Elementary School said it would wait for the family’s permission before providing any statements to the media.

Dozens of community members have shared condolences on Ray’s obituary page and on Facebook.

“Taylor (Abigail’s mother), I am so sorry for your loss. Abi was such a sweet, kind, thoughtful little girl. She was an angel on earth who has now gained her heavenly wings,” one commenter, Elaine Guyton, wrote. “Prayers for you Matt, Lily and Dean. My heart breaks for you and your family.”

Another, Stephen Hall, recalled a class trip: “I remember going to the aquarium with the class. My son Ethan said that she was one of his good friends in his class. She was a part of our group and was so sweet, even to our two younger boys. May God give the family peace and rest and know she blessed us with her smile.”

Following Ray’s death, Peach County residents have also begun advocating for the city of Byron to install speed bumps in the neighborhood where the accident happened to prevent future endangerment.

Funeral services for Ray will be held at 5 p.m. Wednesday at the Williams Funeral Home Chapel in Milledgeville, according to the obituary.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to an animal rescue organization.