Newton County, GA — A 15-year-old boy has died following a high-speed pursuit that began at a routine road check late Friday night, according to the Georgia State Patrol (GSP).
The incident started around 10:17 p.m. on July 25, 2025, during a joint road check on Georgia Highway 36 near Stone Mountain Street in Covington. Authorities say a gray Ford Fusion was stopped and the driver was instructed to pull into a nearby parking lot for further inspection.
Instead, the driver accelerated away from the checkpoint, initiating a pursuit. The vehicle sped westbound on Georgia 36 before turning south onto Georgia 81, with Newton County Sheriff’s deputies continuing the chase.
As the pursuit continued down Georgia 81, just south of Flat Shoals Road, the driver attempted to pass another vehicle, lost control, and veered off the road onto the east shoulder. The Fusion then struck a utility pole and came to rest in the middle of the highway.
The 15-year-old driver was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. His identity has not been released due to his age.
A passenger in the vehicle sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta for treatment. Their condition has not yet been updated.
The Georgia State Patrol is continuing to investigate the crash.
This tragic incident is a sobering reminder of the dangers of fleeing law enforcement and the importance of making safe choices — especially for our youth.
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