Brookhaven Police Arrest Fatality Hit & Run Suspects
Editors, News Desks, and Reporters,
NEWS RELEASE
Brookhaven, GA. October 23, 2023 –
On October 19, 2023, Brookhaven Police responded to multiple calls reporting a pedestrian struck by a vehicle on Clairmont Road near Canmont Drive. Officers arrived on scene and found 55-year-old Linda Powell deceased in the roadway. Officers cleared the roadway of all vehicular traffic and Traffic Safety Unit investigators responded to the scene. Investigators interviewed multiple witnesses, obtained video footage from nearby businesses, and processed the crime scene. Witness testimony provided investigators with details on two suspect vehicles involved in the fatal crash.
The investigation revealed the victim was crossing Clairmont Road when she was struck by two separate vehicles that are unrelated. Neither of the drivers were present at the scene when officers arrived. Using both privately owned surveillance cameras as well as nearby traffic cameras, investigators were able to identify the suspect vehicles.
On 10/23/2023, Brookhaven Traffic Safety Investigators interviewed and arrested two individuals involved in the fatal crash which led to the death of Linda Powell. Both subjects have been arrested and transported to the Dekalb County Jail. Book-in photos can be obtained through the DKSO public information office. Names and charges listed below:
Koechiesta Smith 01/20/1972 Felony Hit & Run
Hugo Valente 07/23/2002 Felony Hit & Run
The investigation into both individuals is still ongoing and additional charges may be filed at a later date.
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Media Contacts:
Lieutenant Jake Kissel
Public Information Officer
Brookhaven Police Department
404-637-0608 (Direct)
