Incident Overview
A shocking hit-and-run incident involving a semitruck was captured on dash camera video on a Friday afternoon in DeKalb County. The accident occurred at the intersection of Memorial Drive and Rays Road around lunchtime. The victim, Keith Lamont Richardson Junior, was preparing to make a left turn when an 18-wheeler crashed into his vehicle, resulting in significant damage and severe injuries.
Victim’s Condition
Richardson Junior was immediately rushed to Grady Memorial Hospital following the crash. According to his mother, Helen Lewis Georgannas, her son suffered a blood clot in his head as a result of the accident. The dash cam footage showed the semi striking Richardson’s car with such force that it dragged the vehicle across the intersection, causing extensive damage.
Georgannas described the harrowing scene, stating that the car was “smashed like a trash can” and that she could see blood coming out of her son’s mouth.
Previous Family Tragedy
This incident is particularly traumatic for Richardson Junior’s family, as it marks the second time a semitruck has caused devastation for them. Georgannas revealed that in a previous incident involving a semitruck, family members were killed. The recurrence of such a tragic event has brought back painful memories for the family, amplifying their distress and grief.
Identification of the Trucking Company
Using the dash cam video, FOX 5 News was able to identify the trucking company involved in the incident as My Way Trucking, based in Tucker. The owner of the company, who identified herself as a woman, explained that the driver, a man in his 60s, experienced a medical emergency at the time of the crash. She stated that the driver realized what had happened and pulled over about a mile down the road to call the police.
Legal and Safety Concerns
Following the incident, DeKalb County police cited the semitruck driver for causing the accident and for leaving the scene of a crash. The incident has raised significant concerns about road safety and the responsibilities of truck drivers.
Helen Lewis Georgannas emphasized the need for truckers to slow down and pay more attention to their surroundings, stressing that they are not the only ones on the road. Her message is a poignant reminder of the potential consequences of negligence and the importance of vigilance while driving.
Impact on the Community
The dramatic footage and the severity of the incident have sparked discussions within the community about the safety of intersections and the measures needed to prevent similar accidents in the future. The intersection of Memorial Drive and Rays Road, where the crash occurred, is now under scrutiny for its safety features and traffic management.
Road to Recovery
Despite the severity of his injuries, Richardson Junior is showing signs of improvement. His mother has indicated that he still has a long road to recovery ahead of him. The family’s focus is now on his rehabilitation and ensuring that he receives the necessary medical care to heal from this traumatic event.
Conclusion
The hit-and-run incident involving an 18-wheeler in DeKalb County has highlighted the dangers of road accidents and the lasting impact they can have on families. The dramatic dash cam footage serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the responsibilities that all drivers, especially those operating large vehicles, must uphold.
As Richardson Junior continues his recovery, the community is left to reflect on the need for greater awareness and preventive measures to avoid future tragedies on the road.
