GILMER COUNTY, Ga. – A Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office school resource officer was injured Tuesday afternoon after being struck by a vehicle while directing traffic on Highway 5 South, according to information released by the sheriff’s office.

The incident occurred around 2:49 p.m. in the area of Legion Road near Bobcat Trail.

Deputies and emergency responders shut down Legion Road at Bobcat Trail shortly after the crash. School buses and other traffic were rerouted to allow emergency vehicles to access the scene safely.

In an update, the sheriff’s office confirmed that the injured individual was an SRO deputy assigned to traffic control in the area.

The roadway remained closed as investigators worked the scene, and officials urged drivers traveling toward Coosawattee or the opposite side of Legion Road to follow detours and avoid the area entirely.

Later Tuesday afternoon, Sheriff Nicholson shared an update on the deputy’s condition after speaking with the deputy’s wife. The sheriff’s office confirmed the deputy’s injuries are not life-threatening, though he is experiencing significant pain and is being admitted for further evaluation and treatment.

“We appreciate the community’s concern,” the update stated. “Please continue to keep our deputy and his family in your thoughts.”

Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances of the crash. The roadway is expected to remain closed for an extended period as the investigation continues.