Pedestrian killed by fleeing car during police chase identified

A pedestrian was killed Thursday night after being struck by a fleeing vehicle during a police pursuit in DeKalb County, authorities said.The Georgia State Patrol was contacted by the DeKalb County Police Department on Feb. 12 to investigate the fatal crash involving a black Mercedes-Benz sedan. According to investigators, DeKalb officers were pursuing the vehicle southbound on Candler Road when the driver entered the center turn lane and hit a pedestrian with the front of the car.The driver reportedly continued south on Candler Road, and the pursuing officer eventually lost sight of the vehicle. The pedestrian, who was later identified as 59-year-old Terry Lowman of Decatur, was pronounced dead at the scene.DeKalb County Police Department sent the following statement to FOX 5 Atlanta:On February 12, 2026, at approximately 8:45 p.m., a DeKalb County Police officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Candler Road near Whites Mill Road after observing violations, specifically illegal window tint and an obstructed license plate due to a heavily tinted tag cover.The driver initially pulled over. However, after both vehicles came to a stop, the driver abruptly fled the scene. The officer initiated a pursuit. During the pursuit, the suspect vehicle was reportedly involved in a collision that resulted in a pedestrian fatality. The vehicle fled the scene and the officer discontinued the pursuit shortly thereafter when the suspect vehicle was lost from sight.The Georgia State Patrol is the lead agency investigating the fatal collision. All questions related to the crash investigation, including the circumstances of the impact, should be directed to GSP.In reference to the pursuit, the DeKalb County Police Department conducts a review of all pursuits to ensure compliance with departmental policy and applicable law. That review process is standard procedure.The suspect vehicle and driver remain under investigation. Due to the ongoing nature of both the criminal and administrative reviews, additional details cannot be released at this time.Body-worn camera does exist. The release of any video will be handled in accordance with Georgia law and department policy.Our thoughts are with the family of the pedestrian who lost their life in this tragic incident.State troopers assigned to the Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team responded to assist with the investigation. Law enforcement agencies in the area are searching for the Mercedes.This is a developing story. Check back for updates.