Atlanta, December 26, 2025
News Summary
A pedestrian was fatally struck by a car on the Downtown Connector in Atlanta. The incident occurred around 8 p.m. when the pedestrian entered the busy highway, leading to the closure of several southbound lanes. The driver of the vehicle sustained a minor injury but remained at the scene. The ongoing investigation by the Georgia State Patrol will determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and whether any charges will be filed against the driver.
Atlanta – A pedestrian was fatally struck by a car on the Downtown Connector in Atlanta on Friday night. The incident took place around 8 p.m. on southbound I-75/I-85 near Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard, as reported by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT).
Preliminary investigations indicate that the pedestrian entered the highway and was subsequently hit by a silver Honda Civic. The driver of the Honda Civic reportedly sustained a minor injury but remained at the scene of the incident.
Following the crash, all southbound lanes of the highway were temporarily closed to traffic, with the exception of the HOV lane. GDOT has estimated that the lanes will reopen by 11:30 p.m. Friday night.
As of now, the identity of the pedestrian has not been disclosed. The Georgia State Patrol (GSP) has involved the Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team to assist in the ongoing investigation. There is currently no information available regarding whether the driver will face any charges.
This incident remains under investigation, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
Details of the Incident
The pedestrian was struck after entering the busy Downtown Connector highway during evening traffic. The timing and circumstances surrounding the pedestrian’s entry onto the highway remain unclear.
Impact on Traffic
The accident caused significant disruption, leading to the closure of several lanes on one of Atlanta’s major thoroughfares. The HOV lane was the only lane that remained open during the investigation, and GDOT worked promptly to estimate when full traffic flow would resume.
Ongoing Investigation
The GSP’s Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team plays a vital role in determining the specific causes and factors involved in the crash. The investigation will assess various elements, including the circumstances of the pedestrian’s presence on the highway and the actions of the driver.
Background on Pedestrian Safety in Atlanta
Incidents involving pedestrians in Atlanta have been a concern for city officials and community members. Measures are being discussed to improve pedestrian safety and reduce accidents in high-traffic areas. The Downtown Connector is known for heavy traffic and has seen previous incidents involving vehicles and pedestrians.
Key Takeaways
- A pedestrian was fatally struck by a car on the Downtown Connector in Atlanta.
- The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on I-75/I-85 near Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard.
- The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene with minor injuries.
- All southbound lanes were temporarily closed, with a reopening anticipated by 11:30 p.m.
- The investigation is ongoing, with no information on potential charges against the driver.
FAQ
What happened on the Downtown Connector in Atlanta?
A person was hit by a car on the Downtown Connector in Atlanta on Friday night.
When did the incident occur?
The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on southbound I-75/I-85 near Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard.
Who is investigating the accident?
The Georgia State Patrol (GSP) has engaged the Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team for assistance in the investigation.
Will the driver face charges?
There is currently no information on whether the driver will face charges.
When will the closed lanes reopen?
GDOT anticipates that the lanes will reopen by 11:30 p.m. Friday night.
What is known about the pedestrian?
The identity of the pedestrian has not yet been disclosed.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Friday night |
| Time of Incident | 8 p.m. |
| Location | Southbound I-75/I-85 near Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard |
| Vehicle Involved | Silver Honda Civic |
| Driver’s Condition | Minor injury |
| Lane Status | All southbound lanes closed, except HOV lane |
| Estimated Lane Reopening | By 11:30 p.m. Friday night |
| Investigating Agency | Georgia State Patrol (GSP) |
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Additional Resources
- 11Alive News
- Wikipedia: Pedestrian Safety
- Atlanta News First
- Google Search: pedestrian accidents in Atlanta
- WSB Radio
- Google Scholar: pedestrian safety measures
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Accident
- Rough Draft Atlanta
- Google News: Atlanta traffic accidents
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