The Chatham County sheriff’s deputy who died Wednesday evening in a two-vehicle crash in Bryan County has been identified as Richard Allen Hall, 45.

Hall was on duty in an unmarked patrol car that was involved in a crash shortly after 5 p.m. on Highway 280, Chatham County Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Gena Bilbo said. He was heading to his home in Bryan County, according to the CCSO.

Hall was driving west on Highway 280 just north of Interstate 16 when he attempted a U-turn and was hit by a Ford F-150 pick-up, Bryan County Sheriff Clyde Smith said. His reason for making the U-turn is not known.

"We might not ever know why," said Sgt. Chris Nease of the Georgia State Patrol.

Hall was assigned to Internal Affairs with the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office. His former assignments included the Sex Offender Registration Team and patrol with the Chatham County Police. He had been with the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office since April of 2001.

The driver of the Ford F-150 pick-up was taken to a local hospital, according to the CCSO.

The Georgia State Patrol is investigating the crash.

The Bryan County News will continue to provide more information as it becomes available.