Police sergeant charged with homicide after high-speed chase ends in deadly crash

College Park sergeant faces charges after deadly chase

A College Park police sergeant is under arrest after authorities say he led an unauthorized chase that ended in a crash, killing two people. Investigators say his actions following the incident led to felony charges. FOX 5’s Eric Perry has more on the case.

COLLEGE PARK, Ga. - A College Park police sergeant has been fired and is now facing multiple felony charges after investigators say he initiated an unauthorized chase on Interstate 285 that ended in a deadly crash — and then drove away without calling for help.

What we know:

report an accident, first-degree homicide by vehicle and hit-and-run resulting in death. Smith was booked into the Clayton County Jail on Sept. 23 and remains held without bond.

Authorities say the incident happened Aug. 17 near the Riverdale Road exit in Clayton County. Investigators allege Smith chased a Land Rover at speeds exceeding 100 mph in his patrol SUV. The driver of the Land Rover lost control, veered off the road and struck a tree. The impact split the vehicle and ejected both occupants, killing them.

Family members identified one of the victims as Matthew Benton. They said they first received word of the crash by phone, but only learned later of the allegations against the officer.

Donnie Smith (Clayton County Sheriff's Office)

According to affidavits, Smith did not stop to render aid or call for help. Instead, investigators say he continued driving and failed to report the crash. One affidavit described his actions as "reckless and negligent" and said his decision to leave the scene showed "gross negligence and willful or wanton misconduct."

What they're saying:

College Park officials said Smith was terminated from the department on Aug. 22 after a review of the incident. "We grieve with the families of those affected," a city spokesperson said. "While the individual in question is no longer employed with the department, we understand the seriousness of these charges and are working in conjunction with the appropriate authorities as this case proceeds."

Police Chief said in a separate statement: "The College Park Police Department remains committed to serving its residents and holding its employees to the highest standards."

What we don't know:

Smith's current employment status is not known.

The name of the other driver hasn't been released.

What they're saying:

College Park officials said they recognize this is an ongoing legal matter and directed inquiries to the district attorney’s office.