Tray Chaney, known for his role as Malik “Poot” Carr on HBO’s The Wire, is recovering from injuries after a tornado ripped through Henry County, Georgia, and left his home in ruins.
Also, the actor’s 18-year-old son, Malachi Chaney, was thrown 300 feet from his room and is now fighting for his life in the ICU.
The devastating storm hit on Thursday afternoon, destroying homes in Locust Grove, just outside Atlanta. In an Instagram video, Tray recounted the traumatic moment the tornado struck, just hours after spending what he described as “a beautiful day” with his son.
“I lost my house. I lost everything in it,” Chaney said. “Thank God I’m still living. I survived the tornado. My son, he survived.”
The actor was knocked unconscious during the storm. When he came to, he crawled out from beneath the wreckage and began frantically calling out for Malachi. Neighbors ultimately found the teen in the woods behind what used to be their home.
“He was thrown 300 feet out of his room,” Tray said, still processing the surreal turn of events. “I wish it was me that was in the ICU rather than him. I don’t want him experiencing no pain.”
Doctors say Malachi suffered several broken ribs and a fractured facial bone. Tray, now at his son’s bedside, said that despite the darkness of the moment, he’s thankful for the outpouring of love and the bravery of his neighbors and first responders.
In the same video, Chaney reflected on how quickly life changed. “One second you’re chilling with your son… the next, your house is gone,” he said. “Please cherish life. Hug your loved ones now. Life just changed for me & mine. We’ll never be the same.”
Despite losing his home and all of his belongings, Tray is focusing on the road ahead, with faith, community, and family keeping him grounded.
We send love and healing to the Chaney family as Malachi continues to recover.
