Cobb County Police are now piecing together the aftermath of a Memorial Day tragedy, following a severe hit-and-run incident on Interstate 285. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the event unfolded around 11:19 a.m. near the bustling merge of I-285 East and I-75. A white 1996 GMC Safari, containing a 57-year-old man from Austell and a 22-year-old male passenger, was purportedly struck by a dark sedan—believed to be a Kia—that subsequently fled the scene.
The collision resulted in the GMC Safari crashing into the median barrier, and coming to a halt facing west in the left lane. The driver sustained serious injuries and was rushed to WellStar Kennestone Hospital, while the passenger received treatment for minor injuries. As holiday travelers crowded the roads, reports from Atlanta News First, highlighted the broader context of Memorial Day weekend's increased risk of traffic incidents, with Georgia anticipating a record-breaking 1.38 million travelers.
The authorities are urging the public to assist in locating the hit-and-run driver. The community's role in such cases is crucial, as information they provide could lead to closing the case. As such anyone that might have information about the dark-colored sedan, or the accident itself is encouraged to contact the Cobb County Police STEP Unit at 770-499-3987.
Law enforcement agencies have been strained with multiple crashes during this peak travel period. Atlanta News First reports that beyond the immediate incident, over 280 crashes occurred throughout the weekend leading to 11 deaths, and over 100 injuries.
