DEKALB COUNTY, GA — The DeKalb County community is mourning the unexpected and tragic death of 59-year-old Terry Lowman of Decatur, who was fatally struck by a vehicle on February 12, 2026, during a police pursuit in the area of Candler Road. Terry’s death has left family, friends, and neighbors heartbroken as they process the loss of a beloved member of their community.

At around 8:30 p.m., officers with the DeKalb County Police Department initiated a traffic stop after observing violations involving a black Mercedes-Benz sedan, including illegal window tint and an obstructed license plate. As officers attempted to pull over the vehicle, the driver fled, initiating a high-speed pursuit southbound on Candler Road.

According to the Georgia State Patrol, the situation quickly turned tragic when the driver of the Mercedes-Benz swerved into the center turn lane, where Terry Lowman was walking. The driver struck Lowman, who was fatally injured. Shockingly, the suspect continued fleeing southbound, and the pursuing officer lost sight of the vehicle.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene promptly, but despite their efforts, Terry Lowman was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities were left to piece together the events leading to the fatal collision, and investigators with the Georgia State Patrol are continuing their work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the accident.

Details of the Incident: A Life Cut Short

The tragic crash occurred as officers with the DeKalb County Police Department attempted to stop the vehicle involved in the pursuit. According to authorities, the driver had committed a traffic violation that prompted officers to activate their sirens and attempt the stop. The driver, instead of pulling over, made the decision to flee from law enforcement, leading to the dangerous pursuit.

The police pursuit took place on Candler Road, which is a busy roadway known for its heavy traffic. According to police reports, the Mercedes-Benz driver swerved into the center turn lane at an intersection. It was at that point that Terry Lowman, who was walking along the road, was struck by the vehicle.

Despite the immediate emergency response, Terry could not be saved. The accident marks the second fatality in DeKalb County in a police pursuit this year, highlighting ongoing concerns about pursuit-related accidents in urban areas and the need for better policy and tactics when dealing with high-speed chases.

Terry Lowman: Remembering a Beloved Community Member

Terry Lowman is being remembered by those who knew him as a kind, compassionate, and selfless man. He was described as someone who was always ready to lend a helping hand and brighten the day of those around him. Friends, family, and DeKalb County residents have expressed their sorrow over the loss of a man whose warmth and generosity touched the lives of many.

One family member, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “Terry was a great guy. He was always the one to check in on you, to make sure you were okay. He had such a giving heart, and it’s heartbreaking that he’s gone.”

Another friend shared, “Terry had a way of making you feel at ease, no matter what was going on. He always had a smile and a joke ready to make everyone around him laugh. He was one of the good ones.”

The Impact of Police Pursuits: A Community’s Growing Concern

Terry Lowman’s tragic death has led to increased discussions about police pursuits and the dangers they pose to innocent bystanders. Many have questioned the decision to engage in high-speed chases, especially in densely populated areas like DeKalb County, where pedestrians and vehicles are frequently on the road.

Some residents have spoken out about the need for better police pursuit policies, advocating for alternatives that prioritize public safety over apprehending suspects at high speeds. The issue of pursuit-related accidents has been a topic of debate nationwide, with critics pushing for a review of police protocols to reduce risks to the public.

DeKalb County authorities have yet to release a full statement on the police pursuit protocols in place at the time of the incident, but many are hoping for a review of the circumstances and policies to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The Investigation: Who Was the Driver of the Mercedes-Benz?

As the investigation continues, DeKalb County Police and the Georgia State Patrol are working diligently to identify the driver of the Mercedes-Benz who fled the scene. Authorities have not released a detailed description of the suspect, and no arrests have been made as of yet. The driver’s decision to flee after striking Terry Lowman is being treated as a serious crime by investigators, and they are exploring all leads to locate and apprehend the individual responsible.

The Georgia State Patrol is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, including examining the pursuit tactics used by officers, the speed of the vehicle during the chase, and whether the driver’s actions were reckless or intentional.

As investigators continue their work, the DeKalb County Police Department has urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. Local authorities have emphasized that even the smallest piece of information could help bring justice to Terry’s family.

DeKalb County’s Call for Justice and Accountability

Following Terry Lowman’s death, DeKalb County residents and officials are calling for justice and accountability for the person responsible for the crash. The DeKalb County Police and community leaders have expressed their condolences to Terry’s family and called for those responsible for his death to be held accountable.

DeKalb County Sheriff Gerald Sticker stated, “The loss of one life is tragic enough, but when it’s the result of someone’s decision to act recklessly, it compounds the heartbreak. We will do everything in our power to find the person responsible for Terry’s death and bring them to justice. This was a senseless loss that should never have happened.”

In addition, DeKalb County officials are focusing on increasing public awareness about the dangers of high-speed pursuits and the need for greater caution when handling such incidents.

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Terry’s Legacy: A Community in Mourning

While the investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding Terry Lowman’s death, the DeKalb County community is focusing on honoring his life. A memorial service will be held in the coming days to celebrate Terry’s life and provide loved ones with the opportunity to share memories and pay tribute to a man who gave so much to others.

In the wake of this tragedy, many have called for greater awareness of the risks of police pursuits and how the community can work together to ensure the safety of pedestrians, drivers, and residents alike.

Conclusion: A Tragic Loss

Terry Lowman’s passing is a painful reminder of how quickly lives can be changed and the importance of public safety for all. His family, friends, and the entire DeKalb County community mourn the loss of a loving father, son, and friend, whose life was tragically cut short. As the investigation continues, those who knew Terry are committed to keeping his memory alive and fighting for justice for his untimely death.

May Terry Lowman rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength and comfort as they navigate this difficult time. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his memory will never fade.