DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — A tragic incident unfolded Thursday night when 59-year-old Terry Lowman of Decatur was struck and killed by a fleeing vehicle during a police pursuit, authorities said. The crash occurred on Candler Road and has left the community mourning the sudden loss of Lowman.
According to the Georgia State Patrol, the investigation began after the DeKalb County Police Department contacted state troopers regarding a black Mercedes-Benz involved in the incident. Officers had initially attempted a traffic stop on Candler Road near Whites Mill Road at approximately 8:45 p.m. after observing violations, including illegal window tint and an obstructed license plate.
The driver initially complied but abruptly fled after both vehicles stopped. During the pursuit, the Mercedes entered the center turn lane and struck Lowman with the front of the vehicle. The driver continued southbound, and the pursuing officer eventually lost sight of the vehicle. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but Lowman was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Mercedes and its driver remain under investigation, and law enforcement agencies in the area are actively searching for the vehicle. State troopers assigned to the Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team are assisting in the investigation to determine the full circumstances of the crash. Authorities have not released additional details due to the ongoing criminal and administrative reviews.
DeKalb County Police said that the department reviews all pursuits to ensure compliance with policy and law. Body-worn camera footage exists, but any release will be handled according to Georgia law and departmental regulations. Officials emphasized that this is standard procedure and that the review process is ongoing.
The DeKalb County Police Department extended condolences to the family of Terry Lowman, describing the incident as “tragic” and urging residents to remain vigilant while authorities continue their investigation. The Georgia State Patrol is leading the collision investigation, and anyone with information about the Mercedes or the crash is urged to contact law enforcement. This heartbreaking incident highlights the dangers associated with high-speed pursuits and underscores the impact of reckless driving on innocent bystanders.
