Carrollton is in mourning after Police Officer Dustin Krish died nearly a year after he was hit while directing traffic, the department announced Wednesday. Krish had remained hospitalized since the June 11, 2025 crash, spending months in intensive therapy as his family, colleagues and residents closely followed every update. His death has sparked an outpouring of condolences across the city and among first responder communities throughout the region.
According to Atlanta News First, the Carrollton Police Department said, “While we are heartbroken on earth, what a celebration Dustin is having in Heaven.” Chief Joel Richards called Krish “unwavering in his duty” and “the best of us.”
How the crash unfolded
On June 11, 2025, Krish was directing traffic at an intersection near an Ingles on Highway 27 when an SUV crossed into oncoming lanes and struck him, according to WSB-TV. Traffic lights in the area were out because of power work tied to a nearby construction site. Bystanders and fellow officers rushed to help, and medics soon airlifted Krish to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta. The Georgia State Patrol took the lead on the crash investigation.
Long recovery
Krish spent months in intensive speech and physical therapy. Two months after the crash, his family described him as “minimally conscious,” Atlanta News First reported. The department later said he developed pneumonia and remained in critical condition as recently as June 2.
As medical bills mounted, relatives launched an online fundraiser on GoFundMe, and used the page to keep supporters updated on his condition.
Officer and family
Krish joined the Carrollton Police Department in 2022, according to the Carrollton Police Department. He had married just months before the crash, and colleagues described him as deeply committed to both his work and the Carrollton community he served.
The department has not yet released funeral information and said it will share service details once arrangements are finalized.
Investigation and next steps
The Georgia State Patrol continues to investigate the collision. Initial reports indicated that no criminal charges were filed immediately after the crash, according to WSB-TV. The department has issued periodic public updates since the incident, while Krish’s family has shared more personal details through their fundraiser page.
This remains a developing story, and coverage will be updated as authorities release additional information.
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