DeKalb County, GA (February 13, 2026) – A 59-year-old man was killed Thursday night after being struck by a fleeing vehicle during a police pursuit on Candler Rd, according to authorities.
The fatal crash occurred on February 12 at approximately 8:45 p.m. along Candler Rd near Whites Mill Rd. Investigators said a DeKalb County Police officer initially attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a black Mercedes-Benz sedan for alleged violations, including illegal window tint and an obstructed license plate. After briefly stopping, the driver reportedly fled, prompting a pursuit.
During the pursuit, the vehicle entered the center turn lane and struck a pedestrian with the front of the car. The driver continued southbound on Candler Rd and was eventually lost from sight. The pedestrian, later identified as 59-year-old Terry Lowman of Decatur, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Georgia State Patrol has taken the lead on the crash investigation. Troopers assigned to the Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team responded to assist. Authorities are actively searching for the Mercedes and its driver. Both the criminal investigation and an administrative review of the pursuit are ongoing.
Key Details
- Type: Fatal pedestrian crash during police pursuit
- Location: Candler Rd near Whites Mill Rd, DeKalb County
- Reported: February 12 at 8:45 p.m.
- Victim: 59-year-old Terry Lowman of Decatur
- Vehicle: Black Mercedes-Benz sedan fled the scene
- Status: Investigation ongoing; suspect vehicle sought
What We Know So Far
- An officer attempted a traffic stop for alleged equipment violations before the driver fled.
- The vehicle reportedly struck the pedestrian while traveling southbound in the center turn lane.
- The Georgia State Patrol is leading the crash investigation.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The identity of the driver involved
- Additional details about how the collision occurred
- When the suspect vehicle may be located
Local Context
Candler Rd is a major north-south corridor in DeKalb County, connecting residential areas and commercial stretches near Whites Mill Rd. Evening traffic along this route can include commuters, residents, and through traffic moving between neighborhoods and nearby highways. When a pursuit-related crash occurs on a roadway like Candler Rd, multiple agencies may respond, particularly if the incident results in serious or fatal injuries. In this case, the Georgia State Patrol’s Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team was called in to document the scene and examine the circumstances surrounding the impact. Additional updates may be released as investigators continue their review.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved, move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone needs medical attention.
- Remain at the scene and cooperate with first responders. Leaving before police arrive can create complications later.
- If witnesses are present, collect names and contact information when possible.
- Monitor how you feel after the crash. Some injuries can appear hours or days later.
FAQ
Q: What should drivers do when approaching an active crash scene?
A: Drivers should slow down, stay alert for emergency vehicles and traffic changes, and follow directions from officers at the scene.
Q: Why can pedestrian crashes be especially serious?
A: Pedestrians do not have the protection of a vehicle, which can result in severe or fatal injuries even at moderate speeds.
Q: What does it mean when a crash is under investigation?
A: An ongoing investigation means authorities are reviewing evidence, reconstructing events, and determining whether charges or citations may be appropriate.
