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Fatal Vehicle Collison

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public information release police
July 8, 2019

The Cobb County Police Department Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Unit is investigating a fatal vehicle collision that occurred in Precinct Two on Sunday, July 7, 2019 at 2:12 a.m. on I-20 eastbound near Factory Shoals Road.

Per investigators, a red 1994 Toyota Corolla was traveling eastbound on I-20. The Corolla was struck by a gray 2013 Hyundai Azera. The collision sent the Corolla off the right side of the roadway where it overturned. The Azera struck the barrier between the east and west bound travel lanes.

The driver of the Toyota Corolla was identified as 47-year-old Brian Garieth Betts. Mr. Betts was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Next of kin has been notified.

The driver of the Hyundai Azera was identified as 29-year-old Mark Steven Ridling. Mr. Ridling was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital with minor injuries.

Mr. Ridling was taken into custody after discharge from Grady Memorial Hospital. He was booked into Cobb County Adult Detention Center for the following charges: DUI, Reckless Driving, Following Too Closely, and Vehicular Homicide – 1st Degree (F).

The collision remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the Cobb County Police Department at 770-499-3987.

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