Distracted driver arrested after investigation reveals new information in fatal March crash in Columbus, authorities say
Authorities have made an arrest in a fatal March crash in Columbus, Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office announced.
The Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office responded to the intersection of Schomburg Rd and JR Allen Pkwy, in reference to a motor vehicle accident involving an SUV and a motorcycle on the night of March 23. 2023.
The Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office Motor Squad was called in to assume the investigation. The driver of the motorcycle, 31-year-old Wendell Roderick Smith, Jr., was killed.
“Upon further investigation, it was revealed that the driver of the SUV, Donavin Conley, was utilizing his cell phone at the time of the collision.” Conley turned himself in on April 12, 2023, after being wanted by deputies on the charges of Vehicular Homicide 2nd Degree, Distracted Driving, Failure to Yield (Turning Left), Improper Tires, and No Seatbelt.
“We urge all drivers to stay off your cell phones and keep your eyes on the road,” the agency added.
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