Terry Loman, a 59-year-old resident of Decatur, Georgia, was killed in a hit-and-run crash during a police pursuit on Thursday night, February 12, 2026. The incident occurred just before 9:00 p.m. on Candler Road near Whites Mill Road in the Candler-McAfee area of DeKalb County. The Georgia State Patrol claims that Loman was hit by a black Mercedes-Benz automobile that was escaping from DeKalb County police when he was walking home, which was only a few streets away.
The pursuit began after officers attempted to stop the Mercedes for a heavily tinted license plate cover and illegal window tint. Initially, the vehicle pulled over, but moments later it sped off, prompting a chase. As the Mercedes traveled southbound on Candler Road, it entered the center turn lane and struck Loman with its front bumper. The impact was fatal, and the vehicle continued fleeing the scene without stopping.
Emergency responders arrived shortly after and found Loman critically injured. Despite immediate efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Georgia State Patrol took over the investigation and is currently leading the search for the driver. Authorities have identified the suspect vehicle as a black Mercedes-Benz sedan with Texas license plate number BLK63. As of the latest update, the driver remains at large.
Loman was a father of three and a well-known figure in his neighborhood. He had a passion for lawn care and was described by family and friends as a fun-loving, family-oriented man who brought joy to those around him. His death has left the community in mourning and raised serious concerns about the risks posed by high-speed pursuits in residential areas.
The location of the crash, near the intersection of Candler Road and Whites Mill Road, is a busy corridor that sees frequent pedestrian traffic. Residents have long voiced concerns about speeding and reckless driving in the area. This incident has reignited calls for a review of police pursuit policies and for improved safety measures to protect pedestrians in high-risk zones.
As the investigation continues, the Georgia State Patrol is urging anyone with information about the suspect vehicle or the driver to come forward. The tragic death of Terry Loman underscores the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the urgent need for accountability and reform in pursuit protocols.
