College Park, September 24, 2025
News Summary
A College Park police officer, Donnie Smith, has been charged with multiple offenses including vehicular homicide after a high-speed chase resulted in the deaths of two individuals. The incident occurred when Smith pursued a 2009 Land Rover at speeds over 100 mph, leading to a tragic crash. Following the incident, Smith allegedly left the scene without providing aid. He is now in jail awaiting further legal proceedings as investigators look into the events surrounding the deadly chase.
College Park
A College Park police officer named Donnie Smith faces multiple charges linked to a deadly chase that took place on August 17, 2025, on I-285 near Riverdale Road. The incident led to the tragic deaths of two unidentified individuals who were ejected from a 2009 Land Rover during the high-speed pursuit.
According to arrest warrants, Smith was pursuing the vehicle in a “reckless manner”, reaching speeds exceeding 100 mph. The Land Rover veered off the road, struck a tree, and split in half, resulting in the fatalities. Following the crash, Smith allegedly left the accident scene without providing aid or reporting the incident.
Smith has been charged with the following offenses:
- Vehicular homicide
- Hit and run resulting in serious injury or death
- Reckless driving
- Violation of oath by a public officer
- Failure to report an accident
It has been established that Smith’s actions during the chase did not comply with Georgia law for authorized emergency vehicle pursuits. As of now, he is in jail with no bond following his first court appearance on Wednesday morning. The current employment status of Donnie Smith is not publicly known, and the identities of the deceased occupants of the Land Rover have not yet been released.
In light of the ongoing legal matter, College Park officials have acknowledged the situation and directed all inquiries to the district attorney’s office.
Background Context
Police pursuits can often escalate quickly, raising questions about the balance between public safety and law enforcement responsibilities. The Georgia law governing emergency vehicle pursuits is intended to provide guidelines for police officers to follow. These laws help ensure that while officers are allowed to pursue suspects, they must also consider the potential dangers of high-speed chases to the public and other motorists. The consequences, as seen in this tragic case, can be devastating.
FAQ
What charges has Donnie Smith faced?
Smith has been charged with vehicular homicide, hit and run resulting in serious injury or death, reckless driving, violation of oath by a public officer, and failure to report an accident.
What happened during the chase on August 17, 2025?
Smith was pursuing a 2009 Land Rover in a reckless manner at speeds exceeding 100 mph, leading to a crash that claimed the lives of two unidentified individuals.
What were the consequences of the chase?
The consequences included the tragic deaths of two occupants of the Land Rover, as well as Smith being charged with multiple serious offenses.
What is the current status of Donnie Smith?
Donnie Smith is currently in jail with no bond following his first court appearance on Wednesday morning.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Officer Involved | Donnie Smith |
| Incident Date | August 17, 2025 |
| Location | I-285 near Riverdale Road |
| Victims | Two unidentified individuals |
| Vehicle Pursued | 2009 Land Rover |
| Chase Speed | Exceeding 100 mph |
| Charges Filed | Vehicular homicide, hit and run, reckless driving, violation of oath, failure to report |
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Pursuits
- WSB TV
- Google Search: College Park Police Officer Charged
- Fox 5 Atlanta
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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