Tragic Crash in Midtown Atlanta: Two Dead and Three Injured After Tesla Runs Red Light, Collides with Box Truck at Piedmont Avenue and Monroe Drive
ATLANTA, GA – April 16, 2025 — A devastating collision at a busy Midtown Atlanta intersection has left two young adults dead and three others critically injured. The fatal crash occurred Monday morning when a Tesla ran a red light and collided with a box truck at the intersection of Piedmont Avenue and Monroe Drive, near Piedmont Park.
Victims Identified
The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the deceased as 21-year-old DeCarlo Carneal, who was driving the Tesla, and 23-year-old Jordan Jessie, a passenger in the vehicle. Both were pronounced dead at Grady Memorial Hospital after emergency responders attempted life-saving measures at the scene citeturn0search0.
Details of the Crash
According to the Atlanta Police Department, the Tesla was traveling northbound on Piedmont Avenue when it failed to stop at a red light and struck a Hino box truck that was legally proceeding through the intersection. The impact caused the Tesla to become lodged under the truck, resulting in significant damage to the vehicle citeturn0search4.
Three additional occupants of the Tesla—a 22-year-old woman and two men aged 22 and 26—were transported to the hospital in critical condition. The driver and passenger of the box truck were not injured in the incident.
Community Response
The tragic loss of Carneal and Jessie has deeply affected the Atlanta community. Friends and family have taken to social media to express their grief and share memories of the young victims. A memorial has been established at the crash site, where mourners have left flowers, candles, and messages of condolence.
Ongoing Investigation
The Atlanta Police Department’s Accident Investigation Unit is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are reviewing traffic camera footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the collision.
Safety Concerns
This incident has sparked renewed discussions about road safety and the importance of adhering to traffic signals. Community leaders are urging drivers to exercise caution and remain vigilant, especially in busy urban areas where pedestrian and vehicular traffic is dense.
How to Help
Anyone with information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Atlanta Police Department at (404) 546-5465. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers Atlanta at (404) 577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.crimestoppersatlanta.org.
Key Details:
- Date of Incident: Monday, April 14, 2025
- Location: Intersection of Piedmont Avenue and Monroe Drive, Atlanta, GA
- Deceased: DeCarlo Carneal (21), Jordan Jessie (23)
- Injured: Three Tesla passengers (ages 22, 22, and 26) in critical condition
- Vehicles Involved: 2020 Tesla and Hino box truck
- Cause: Tesla ran a red light, colliding with the box truck
- Investigation: Ongoing by Atlanta Police Department
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims during this difficult time.
