Law enforcement agencies across Georgia maintained a strong focus on public safety throughout the Memorial Day holiday weekend, addressing incidents on both the roadways and waterways.
Shafer Harrington, who spent time at Lake Allatoona during the holiday, emphasized the importance of caution. “Safety first, we try to be as safe as possible,” Harrington said.
The Georgia Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported a noticeable rise in arrests related to driving under the influence (DUI) and distracted driving violations during the holiday period. As of Monday evening, authorities confirmed 11 fatalities connected to vehicle travel, including three young adults with ties to Metro Atlanta who attended Stillman College in Alabama.
The fatal crash occurred Saturday on southbound Interstate 75 in Clayton County, near the Tara Boulevard exit. Preliminary investigations indicate the vehicle veered out of its lane and entered a nearby ditch before catching fire. All occupants of the vehicle died at the scene, officials said.
On the water, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) arrested a man on suspicion of boating under the influence (BUI) at Lake Allatoona. Following severe thunderstorms, the man returned to Harbor Town Marina, where he struck both a dock and another vessel.
DNR officers interviewed the individual and determined he was intoxicated. He was arrested and taken to Cherokee County Jail.
Eric Coleman, a longtime Lake Allatoona visitor and water safety advocate, shared concerns about boating safety. “It can be frightening,” Coleman said. “A lot of people don’t realize the seriousness of handling a boat while drinking.”
Coleman, who has spent two decades educating the community about water safety, organizes a boating group called Over The Top Motor Sports. The group operates multiple jet skis and boats and enforces a strict rule: “Once you start drinking, you’re done with the water — no exceptions.”
This year, the DNR has already recorded four BUI arrests at Lake Allatoona, a statistic that worries frequent visitors.
“It’s disappointing,” said Hailly Alameida, who visited the lake for the holiday weekend. “People are drinking and doing things they shouldn’t. I just hope things improve.”
