Andrea Cantrell Obituary, CONYERS, Ga. — Andrea Cantrell died after authorities said she was struck by a vehicle in a fatal hit-and-run crash in Conyers early Monday morning.
The Conyers Police Department identified Derrick Lydell Mathis, 52, of Oxford, as the suspected driver in the incident. Authorities said Mathis was arrested and faces a homicide by vehicle charge in connection with Cantrell’s death.
According to Conyers police, investigators worked with the Georgia State Patrol to identify the vehicle believed to have been involved in the crash. Investigators reviewed surveillance footage and used Flock Safety license plate reader technology as part of the effort to locate the vehicle.
Police said the vehicle was eventually found at a residence on Harvel Street in Conyers. The discovery helped investigators identify Mathis as the suspected driver, after which authorities obtained arrest warrants for him.
Mathis was located at a Conyers motel Tuesday morning and taken into custody without incident, police said. The arrest occurred less than 24 hours after the initial call, according to the Conyers Police Department.
Police Chief R. Scott Freeman credited the rapid use of vehicle information and investigative technology with assisting investigators in identifying and locating the suspect. Freeman said the timely access to vehicle information contributed to the identification and arrest of a suspect within 12 hours of the initial call.
The Georgia State Patrol remains the lead agency investigating the fatal crash, while Conyers police continue to assist state investigators as needed. Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances of the collision or whether further charges will be filed.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing evidence and working to establish the complete circumstances surrounding the crash. Cantrell’s death has left a life lost in a tragic roadway incident, and condolences are extended to those affected by her passing.
