A routine mail run in a Belvedere Park neighborhood turned deadly Monday night when a U.S. Postal Service truck was struck and overturned, killing the carrier behind the wheel, according to authorities. DeKalb County officers responded around 7:11 p.m. to the 3700 block of Larkspur Terrace near Iris Lane, where the driver, identified by the medical examiner as 40-year-old Tinisha Cade, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Crash and Early Investigation
DeKalb County police say a passenger vehicle turning from Iris Lane onto Larkspur Terrace hit the USPS truck, causing it to flip onto its side, according to CBS News Atlanta. No one else was reported injured. The DeKalb County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed Cade's identity and said the cause and manner of death are still being determined as the investigation moves forward.
Neighbors Rushed to Help
Neighbors told reporters they heard a loud boom and rushed outside to find the mail truck on its side, with residents and other postal workers trying to help before first responders could get there, according to WSB-TV. Witnesses described a chaotic, emotional scene as family members and co-workers gathered on the street where the crash happened.
Postal Service Response
The U.S. Postal Service confirmed that Cade was one of its employees and said it was "deeply saddened" by the loss. The agency said it will offer counseling services for workers at the Decatur Main Post Office while the investigation continues, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. USPS also extended condolences to Cade's family, friends and colleagues as officials continue to review what led up to the crash.
What Comes Next
DeKalb County police said investigators are still processing evidence from the scene and have not released information about possible charges or the identity of the other driver, according to CBS News Atlanta. Authorities are asking anyone with video or information about the collision to contact investigators as the department continues its inquiry.
