On a Friday night in Marietta, Georgia, a devastating hit-and-run incident occurred at the Westside Plaza, located at the critical intersection of Powder Springs Road and Sandtown Road. The victim, 19-year-old Jeremias Escalante Perez from Virginia, was critically injured when a reckless driver in a silver Infiniti G35 intentionally drove dangerously in the parking lot. Witnesses reported the driver was performing burnouts when the vehicle struck Perez, dragging him as the driver attempted to flee the scene. Emergency services responded quickly, transporting the victim to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital with life-threatening injuries. The Marietta Police Department's Selective Traffic Enforcement Program Unit is actively investigating the incident, having already impounded a vehicle of interest after receiving an anonymous tip on Saturday evening.

Location and Infrastructure

Westside Plaza, situated at the convergence of Powder Springs Road and Sandtown Road, is a busy commercial area in Marietta known for its high traffic volume and multiple business establishments. The parking lot where the incident occurred is a shared space frequented by customers of various local businesses. This intersection is characterized by complex traffic patterns, with multiple entry and exit points that can create potential hazards for pedestrians. The area is well-populated with commercial properties, making it a critical zone for both vehicular and pedestrian safety. Local traffic control devices and road signage are present, but the incident highlights the ongoing need for vigilant safety measures in such high-activity commercial zones.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Georgia state law, hit-and-run incidents involving serious injury are considered serious criminal offenses. Victims and their families may be entitled to pursue both criminal charges and civil compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and potential long-term care costs. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Georgia is typically two years from the date of the incident. Potential compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and damages for pain and suffering. Victims are advised to document all medical treatments, keep detailed records of expenses, and consult with legal professionals who specialize in personal injury and hit-and-run cases.

Related Resources

Emergency Services

• Marietta Police Department: (770) 794-5384
• Wellstar Kennestone Hospital: Emergency Services
• Cobb County 911 Emergency Services

Traffic Safety Resources

• Marietta Department of Transportation
• Georgia Department of Public Safety
• Cobb County Traffic Safety Division

Support Services

• Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta: Anonymous Tip Line
• Victim Support Services of Cobb County
• Georgia Victim Compensation Program

Legal and Regulatory Information

• Georgia Motor Vehicle Accident Reporting Laws
• Cobb County Traffic Ordinances
• Georgia Department of Driver Services

Note: Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Officer J. Henderson at 770-794-5384 or Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta to provide anonymous tips that may assist in the investigation.