A routine traffic stop in DeKalb County turned into a multi-vehicle crash Thursday afternoon after police said a driver took off during the stop and later became involved in a collision.
The crash happened shortly after 1:20 p.m. at the intersection of Covington Highway and Panola Road in Stonecrest, according to the DeKalb County Police Department.
Authorities said several vehicles were involved in the crash, but no serious injuries were reported.
Driver Allegedly Flees During Traffic Stop
Police said the incident began about a mile away from the crash scene when an officer pulled over a vehicle for a routine traffic stop.
During the stop, the officer reportedly received an alert from the vehicle’s license plate indicating that there was an outstanding warrant connected to a felony drug charge.
According to investigators, when the officer approached the vehicle, the driver allegedly sped away.
Police said the officer did not pursue the vehicle and eventually lost sight of it.
Shortly afterward, authorities learned that the vehicle had been involved in a multi-car crash at Covington Highway and Panola Road.
Several Vehicles Involved in Collision
Witnesses described a chaotic scene after the crash.
Linda Copeland, who was shopping nearby at the time, said she noticed smoke coming from the area and went to check what had happened.
“I just saw a lot of smoke, and when I saw the smoke I just came over here where I could get into here and park right here and go see if they are okay,” Copeland said. “And it was five or six cars piled up.”
Officials said two adults at the scene were treated for minor injuries. No life-threatening injuries were reported.
Suspected Vehicle Found With Drugs and Cash
Police said officers located the vehicle involved in the traffic stop at the crash scene.
According to authorities, investigators found drugs and cash inside the vehicle after the collision.
Footage from the scene showed what appeared to be the suspect’s white vehicle involved in a head-on collision with another car.
Family Member Describes Relief After Crash
Amy Morton said her husband was among those affected by the crash.
She expressed gratitude that he survived despite being involved in the collision.
“I just say you reap what you sow, and when you do wrong it’s going to come back to you 10 times fold, but I’m just grateful today that my husband is fine,” Morton said. “We are going to go to the hospital to have him seen about, but he’s alive.”
Investigation Ongoing
Following the crash, emergency crews responded to the intersection, including DeKalb police officers, ambulances and fire crews.
Georgia Department of Transportation cameras showed multiple emergency vehicles at the scene as authorities investigated the crash.
Police have not released the identity of the driver involved or announced any additional charges.
The investigation remains ongoing.
