Cobb County police investigate pedestrian struck by multiple vehicles on I-285, prompting hours-long closure Sunday

Crash investigation shut down northbound lanes near South Cobb Drive

Cobb County police are investigating a serious traffic incident in which a pedestrian was struck by multiple vehicles on Interstate 285 in Cobb County on Sunday evening, Jan. 18, 2026. The collision occurred in the northbound lanes near South Cobb Drive, leading to an extended closure that disrupted travel for hours.

Police activity began shortly before 7:30 p.m. and ultimately required shutting down all northbound lanes while investigators worked the scene. The lanes later reopened after the initial investigation and roadway work were completed.

What officials have confirmed so far

• The victim was a pedestrian on I-285’s northbound side near South Cobb Drive when they were struck by more than one vehicle.
• The Cobb County Police Department’s Specialized Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Unit was mobilized to investigate.
• The pedestrian’s identity and medical condition had not been released as of late Sunday night.

Authorities have not publicly detailed how the pedestrian came to be on the interstate, the sequence of impacts, or the number of vehicles involved. Police also have not said whether any drivers remained on scene or whether any citations are expected.

How multi-vehicle pedestrian incidents are typically examined

When a pedestrian is struck on a high-speed interstate, investigators typically treat the location as a complex crash scene. Key steps often include documenting vehicle positions and debris fields, reviewing physical evidence such as tire marks, and collecting witness accounts. Investigators may also seek camera footage from nearby roadway systems or vehicles equipped with dash cameras, when available, to establish a timeline and determine contributing factors.

Police said no additional details would be available until the preliminary investigation is completed.

Traffic impact and public safety considerations

The full northbound closure underscores the operational challenges posed by serious roadway crashes on the metro Atlanta perimeter. Complete lane shutdowns are often necessary to allow first responders and investigators to work safely in active travel lanes, particularly when a collision scene extends across multiple lanes or when evidence collection must occur across the roadway.

Motorists are urged to follow directions from law enforcement and traffic control personnel around crash scenes and to remain alert for sudden slowdowns, especially at night when visibility is reduced.

What to watch for next

Police are expected to release additional information once investigators complete the preliminary phase of the case. That may include confirmation of the pedestrian’s condition, the number of vehicles involved, and whether any driver actions are under review.