A vehicle crashed into Magnolias Bar of Athens on Nov. 4, causing significant damage to the building. The East Broad Street building is also home to Republic Salon, which resides above Magnolias Bar. Both businesses remain closed until further notice.

The accident occurred around 7:45 a.m., according to Athens-Clarke County Police Department Lieutenant and Public Information Officer Katie Jenkins. She stressed that the top priority right now is accessing the structural integrity of the building.

Jenkins told Rough Draft this is an active and ongoing investigation. Further details about what led to the collision, along with any reports of injuries, are forthcoming.

Police standing outside Magnolias Bar on Nov. 4, 2026. (Provided by Athens-Clarke County Police Department)
Police, firefighters and engineers assess the damage after a car crashed into Magnolias Bar of Athens the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026, in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Ansley Kelly)
Police, firefighters and engineers assess the damage after a car crashed into Magnolias Bar Nov. 4, 2026, in Athens. (Photo by Ansley Kelly)

East Broad Street, between North Thomas and College Avenue, is currently closed. While police and fire officials work the scene, they are asking people to avoid the area.

“Please avoid the area of E. Broad St. from Lumpkin St. to Thomas St. and surrounding side streets,” an official Facebook post reads. “ACCPD and other emergency responders are actively investigating an incident that occurred this morning at the intersection of E. Broad St. and N. Jackson St. where a vehicle struck a local business. No further information is available at this time.”

The owners of Magnolias Bar have yet to respond to a request for comment regarding the accident.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

Sarra Sedghi is an award-winning dining reporter for Rough Draft Atlanta where she also covers events and culture around the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ansley Kelly is an Athens-based freelance contributor and photographer for Rough Draft. She is currently finishing her journalism degree at UGA's Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, with a minor in design...