SMYRNA, Ga. — A medical examiner says the driver of a stolen U-Haul killed himself, Smyrna police said in a Friday night update.
“After a thorough forensic examination conducted by the Cobb County Medical Examiner’s Office, it has been confirmed that the injuries sustained by the deceased individual were self-inflicted,” the police news release said.
On Friday morning, Smyrna police were on the scene of an officer-involved shooting related to a stolen U-Haul truck.
Police confirmed to Channel 2 Cobb County Bureau Chief Michele Newell that it happened near McLinden Ave and Concord Road.
Police said officers stopped a stolen U-Haul around 6 a.m. At some point during the traffic stop, officers fired their weapons.
The driver was found dead in the U-Haul.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation later identified the driver as Darrick Desawn Rooks, 46 of Marietta.
According to GBI, a Smyrna officer saw the stolen U-Haul driving down the road and tried to do a traffic stop but when they pulled Rooks over, he did not listen to “numerous commands.”
GBI said “a gunshot was fired from the U-Haul and officers returned fire,” and when officers approached the cab, Rooks was found dead with a gunshot wound.
Here is the full text of the Smyrna Police Department’s news release:
“The Smyrna Police Department is providing the following update regarding the fatal incident that occurred earlier this morning.
After a thorough forensic examination conducted by the Cobb County Medical Examiner’s Office, it has been confirmed that the injuries sustained by the deceased individual were self-inflicted.
While the GBI will continue its investigation, we felt it was important to release these verified details promptly, as some inaccurate information has been circulating. Our commitment remains to transparency, accuracy, and compassion as we move."
— Smyrna Police Department
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