ATLANTA, Ga. – A woman accused of a fatal hit-and-run in downtown Atlanta last month is now linked to a second hit-and-run that occurred just minutes later and 20 miles away, according to law enforcement officials.
Portia Taylor, 30, was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide, hit and run, and driving under the influence in connection with the death of 71-year-old Michael Crabtree of Alabama. Investigators say that shortly after the fatal incident, Taylor was involved in another crash in Cobb County.
The tragic sequence of events began in the early morning hours of May 18th. Atlanta Police allege that Taylor, driving at a high rate of speed, struck Crabtree as he was crossing the street at the intersection of Peachtree and Baker Streets. Crabtree, a husband and father who was in Atlanta on business, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities state that Taylor did not stop to render aid and instead fled the scene, heading north on Interstate 75. It is on this stretch of highway, approximately 20 miles from the initial crash site, that police say Taylor was involved in a second hit-and-run, this time involving a truck near the Canton Road connector.
Following the second collision, Taylor was apprehended by Cobb County Police. According to their reports, a subsequent search of her vehicle uncovered an open bottle of tequila, marijuana, and ecstasy pills. She was initially arrested on DUI and other charges by Cobb County authorities.
Further investigation by the Atlanta Police Department connected Taylor and her vehicle to the deadly hit-and-run that claimed the life of Mr. Crabtree. She was subsequently arrested by Atlanta Police and now faces a string of charges, including first-degree vehicular homicide.
“The blatant disregard for human life shown in this case is deeply disturbing,” said Atlanta Police spokesperson Jaques Lahr. “To flee the scene of a fatal accident is unconscionable, and to then continue driving recklessly and cause another collision demonstrates a complete lack of concern for the safety of others.”
Family and friends of Michael Crabtree have remembered him as a loving family man and a respected member of his community.
Portia Taylor is currently being held without bond. It is not immediately clear if she has retained legal representation.
