On October 4, 2013, an 80-year-old woman died in a Gwinnett County car crash. Sadly, this fatal car accident occurred as the woman was at the end of a funeral procession. According to authorities, the wreck occurred around 3 p.m. at the intersection of Peachtree Industrial Boulevard and South Waterworks Road.
According to witnesses, the lady who died was traveling behind the motorcycle officer who was assisting with traffic control for the funeral procession. Sadly, a pickup truck slammed into the maroon sedan she was riding in with an elderly man. “It’s not like he was way behind and ran the red light to catch up. He was right behind the officer,” said Margi Philbin to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
It appears the woman was killed on impact. She was later identified that night as Nira Patterson, of Cumming, by the Gwinnett County Medical Examiner’s Office. However, no information about the man she was traveling with was released. The Philbin's, witnesses of the crash, ran to help the victims. Margi Philbin told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that “We have a strong suspicion she broke her neck on impact.” She also confirmed that the man was injured and called the woman’s name. “It was clear he loved her.”
Police are investigating the crash, but do not believe alcohol or drugs are factors at this time.
Our Gwinnett County accident attorneys at Shane Smith Law are saddened to hear of this tragic wreck and extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Nira Patterson. We also wish the unidentified man a full recovery.