Driver fled after striking pedestrian in Decatur, police said
May 03, 2026 | Decatur, GA
A 75-year-old man lost his life in a hit-and-run incident in Decatur on May 3. Larry Scott, a retired hotel worker, was walking when a vehicle struck him, and the driver fled the scene.
Larry Scott, 75, died after being struck by a hit-and-run vehicle in the 1800 block of Candler Road in Decatur, DeKalb County.
What Happened in the Crash?
DeKalb County police responded to reports of a pedestrian collision just before 11:30 p.m. in the 1800 block of Candler Road. Officers found Scott deceased at the location upon arrival.
- Victim: Larry Scott, 75, retired hotel worker
- Date: May 3
- Time: Approximately 11:30 p.m.
- Location: 1800 block of Candler Road, Decatur, GA
- Outcome: Fatal injuries, and the driver fled the scene
Scott's family organized a memorial service and continues to seek justice as investigators hunt for the responsible party. Loved ones remembered him as a quiet individual who cherished connections with others.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Occur?
Authorities have not disclosed details about the vehicle or driver involved, and the exact circumstances remain under review. Hit-and-run incidents often stem from drivers fearing consequences such as intoxication, unlicensed operation, or outstanding warrants.
The investigation into this tragedy persists, with potential criminal charges awaiting the suspect's capture. Fleeing an accident scene constitutes a serious offense.
Statistic |
Details |
Source |
|---|
Annual Hit-and-Run Fatalities |
Approximately 2,000 deaths per year in the U.S. |
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
Trend Since 2009 |
An increase of about 7% annually in hit-and-run deaths |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) |
Frequency |
More than one hit-and-run crash every minute on U.S. roads |
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) |
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, conducting an independent investigation promptly is crucial to safeguard victims' families. National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal and contributor to Newsline, emphasized the need for thorough examinations.
“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence,” said Bond. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must be thoroughly examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those who have lost a loved one at the hands of a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve. An attorney can also ensure that hit-and-run drivers are held accountable for their reckless actions.”
- Independent investigations help identify negligence in factors like lighting and signage.
- Families may pursue compensation for losses, including medical costs and emotional distress.
- Legal action holds drivers accountable, promoting road safety.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, addressed potential civil remedies.
“An incident is considered a wrongful death when either a person or entity commits a wrongful or negligent act resulting in a person's death,” said Formica. “When vehicle accident fatalities result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, hit-and-run, or driving under the influence, family members are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action against the responsible motorist.”
What Options Exist for Wrongful Death Claims?
Depending on the investigation outcomes, Larry Scott's family could qualify for a wrongful death claim. This might cover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional impacts.
Such claims arise when negligence, like in hit-and-run scenarios, leads to fatalities. Families often seek civil suits against at-fault drivers to secure restitution.
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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).