ADAIRSVILLE, Ga. — The death of an educator, an innocent victim in a police chase, has rippled throughout the community where she worked.
Over the weekend, pre-K paraprofessional Angela "Angie" Townsend was killed after a suspect fleeing from troopers ran a red light and slammed his car into hers off Hwy 140 in Adairsville.
The suspect, 20-year-old Christopher Tyler Parker of Blountsville, Alabama, was taken into custody and charged with felony fleeing and attempting to elude, felony vehicular homicide, felony receiving stolen property and felony bringing stolen property across state lines, according to the GSP.
Townsend worked at White Elementary School and Cass High School, according to the Bartow County School District, and she was beloved by staff and students alike. Students affectionately called her “mom” or their “special friend,” and she was influential during her 23-year career, according to the district.
"She earned the respected titles of special needs paraprofessional, kindergarten paraprofessional, and most recently, pre-K paraprofessional and after-school teacher at White Elementary School," the district said.
Photos: Bartow County paraprofessional, Angela Townsend
As a White Elementary School Warrior, the district said Townsend helped "cultivate a positive school climate and culture that is well-known for its focus on interpersonal relationships."
"Through tears and laughter, White Elementary School Principal Amy Heater notes Mrs. Townsend’s fun-loving personality that made students feel safe, supported, and engaged," the district went on. "Her meaningful activities and hands-on opportunities for learning routinely involved a memorable skit or dance."
Pincipal Heater went on to remember Townsend as an "amazing" part of the White Elementary family, who was a devoted staff member who "put the needs of our children before her very own," Heater said.
"She always had an amazing smile, sense of humor, and a determined, unbreakable spirit. She is going to be missed dearly," she concluded.
On Monday, the school led a tribute to remember Townsend, where students and staff could contribute a favorite memory. The district also announced it would be dedicating a butterfly garden in her honor.
Family members of Townsend asked that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to White Elementary School for the special garden and a possible scholarship in her name.
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