A police chase ended in a crash Tuesday afternoon when a fleeing vehicle struck a MARTA bus at the intersection of Hightower Road and Etheridge Drive in northwest Atlanta shortly before 4 p.m. The bus had about 10 people on board, and five people, including the driver, reported injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals. On scene, crews described the bus as having a shattered windshield as first responders worked to secure the area. Authorities had not identified the person who fled or said whether anyone from that vehicle was arrested.
Officials told Atlanta News First the crash happened shortly before 4 p.m. and that five of the 10 people on the bus were taken to the hospital, including the bus operator. The outlet reported that the situation was still developing as investigators stayed on scene collecting evidence.
How the Chase Ended
WSB‑TV reported the pursuit began on James Jackson Parkway NW and that the fleeing car crashed into the front of the MARTA bus at Etheridge Drive and Hightower Road. Channel 2 Action News said the injuries did not appear to be life threatening and that riders who were not hurt were picked up by another bus. It remained unclear whether anyone inside the fleeing vehicle was taken into custody.
MARTA Confirms Tow, Passengers Rerouted
CBS Atlanta reported the crash time as about 3:58 p.m. and said MARTA confirmed the damaged bus would be towed from the scene. The outlet added that the remaining passengers were transferred to another bus so they could continue to their destinations.
Investigation Underway
Atlanta police are investigating the crash, and officials have not released the identity of the person who fled or explained a motive, according to Atlanta News First. Traffic investigators and MARTA police were at the scene while tow crews cleared the intersection and removed the bus for further examination.
Broader Transit Safety Context
The crash comes amid heightened scrutiny of MARTA after a series of violent incidents this spring prompted a Federal Transit Administration review of the agency’s safety plans and spending, The Atlanta Journal‑Constitution reported. MARTA also rolled out a new rider safety app and other security measures in June, as detailed in a new rider safety app rollout, even as riders debate whether those steps are enough.
What to Watch Next
CBS Atlanta said it would update readers as police and MARTA release more information. We will follow developments and add new details when agencies post official statements or release reports.
