Charles W. James, 25, of Calhoun died Friday morning after an apparent crash on his Aprilia motorcycle, according to a press release from the Calhoun City Police Department.

Officers were dispatched to Victory Dr. in Calhoun in reference to a single vehicle accident. Once officers arrived on the scene at 7:37 a.m. Friday morning, James was discovered lying near the roadway.

According to reports, James was riding his motorcycle southbound on Victory Dr. when the motorcycle left the roadway and ejected the rider.

Both driver and motorcycle struck a small retaining wall as well as a utility pole before coming to rest.

Gordon EMS responded and provided emergency medical treatment, but James died at the scene. Police are still investigating why the motorcycle left the roadway.

“We will continue our investigation into this matter in an effort to uncover a more definitive answer as to the cause of this accident,” said Calhoun City Police Chief Garry Moss.

To honor his memory, James’ “softball family,” and local athletes have pulled together to host a benefit softball tournament to benefit Shannon and Bly, James’ fiancé and young son.

The tournament will be held Saturday, October 13 and will begin at 8 a.m. at the Calhoun Recreation Dept. There is a $200 entry fee per team participating.

Several items are available to be raffled at the tournament, including a Worth bat bag, a Miken FREAK, a Merle Norman gift basket, and more.

To donate directly to the family, you can deposit money directly into Bly’s account at North Georgia National Bank.

Please contact Danielle Polley at 706-263-8359 to enter or to donate concessions for the benefit.