Man killed in 2-county chase ID’d; driver at large

The Georgia State Patrol was involved in a chase in Barrow and Oconee counties.

The Georgia State Patrol was involved in a chase in Barrow and Oconee counties.

After a chase that went through two counties, a passenger in an SUV fleeing authorities was ejected and died and the driver left the scene, the Georgia State Patrol said.

The victim was identified as Levi Cortez Weems, 27, of Athens, GSP spokesman Donnie Saddler said Monday.

About 11:25 p.m. Saturday, troopers in Barrow County were notified that deputies were pursuing a gold Dodge Durango on Ga. 8 near Winder, the GSP said. Authorities did not say why the chase began.

A trooper caught up to the vehicle on Ga. 316 East near the Oconee County line.

“Upon taking over the primary position, the trooper performed a PIT maneuver,” the GSP said. “The Dodge Durango traveled off the south shoulder of (Ga.) 316, rotated, and rolled over several times off the south shoulder of the roadway.”

Weems was pronounced dead at the scene, the GSP said. The driver, who has not been identified, is at large.

The investigation continues.

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