Carrollton officer dies almost a year after work-related injury
Carrollton officer dies year after work-related injury
The Carrollton community is mourning the loss of Police Officer Dustin Krish, who died following a grueling nearly yearlong rehabilitation battle after being struck by a vehicle in the line of duty.
CARROLLTON, Ga. - The Carrollton Police Department is mourning the loss of Officer Dustin Krish, who died nearly a year after suffering severe injuries when he was struck by a vehicle while directing traffic.
ORIGINAL STORY: Carrollton police officer seriously injured in Highway 27 traffic accident
What they're saying:
The department announced Krish's death in a social media post, describing him as a dedicated officer whose commitment to serving others never wavered.
"To know him was to love him," the department wrote, adding that Krish was surrounded by the support of family, friends and fellow officers throughout his recovery.
The loss has deeply impacted the local police force and community members who gathered to pay their respects.
"It has been a tremendous roller-coaster ride for everybody, especially his family, as he went through the ups and down," said Carrollton Police Chief Joel Richards. "His body has been through a lot. We did maintain the hope Dustin would return."
Richards described Krish as a man of strong faith and integrity who deeply loved serving his community.
"He was truly a servant to this community. He made an impact on the people's lives he served in our town," Richards said.
Family friends shared emotional tributes honoring the officer's legacy and faith. "Remembering that he really cared about community safety," said family friend Lexie Ray, later adding that "he will definitely be missed." Friend Ashley Ray added, "Hey, we love you. We are so excited you are in the arms of Jesus."
Injured while serving the community
What we know:
Krish was critically injured while working traffic control near a construction zone on Highway 27 in Carrollton.
Investigators said a southbound vehicle struck the officer, throwing him several feet before colliding with another vehicle. The crash happened near an Ingles grocery store where lane closures were in place because of construction.
Krish was airlifted to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta and remained in intensive care following the collision.
At the time of the crash, witnesses said Krish had just taken his position under a traffic signal when he was hit.
Remembered for his service
Dig deeper:
Krish joined the Carrollton Police Department on Sept. 24, 2022, according to the agency.
In announcing his death, the department shared a message from Chief Joel Richards, who described Krish as "the best of us."
Officials said Krish remained faithful and courageous throughout his lengthy battle with his injuries.
The department asked the community to continue praying for Krish's wife, Emily, his brother, Sgt. Chad Krish, and the rest of his family as they mourn his loss.
His death marks the end of a months-long fight to recover from injuries sustained while serving the Carrollton community.
What they're saying:
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp released a statement that reads:
"Marty, the girls, and I join the Carrollton Police Department in mourning the loss of Officer Dustin Krish. Please keep his family and friends in your prayers as we remember his faithful service to the Carrollton Community."
What's next:
A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 13, from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Martin & Hightower Funeral Home, in Carrollton. Funeral services will take place that Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at Midway Church. He will be laid to rest at Shoal Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Buford.
What we don't know:
The District Attorney's Office for the West Georgia Judicial Circuit has declined to comment on potential charges, describing the case as an open, pending criminal investigation.
It remains unknown if any external traffic safety adjustments will be implemented at local construction sites following the incident, or when the final investigative report will be compiled.