DALE COUNTY, Ala. — Authorities have made an arrest in connection with a deadly hit-and-run incident that took the life of Troy Williams, a local bicyclist. The suspect, identified as Tony Atkins of Cairo, Georgia, faces multiple charges, including Vehicular Homicide, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, and Failure to Render Aid.
The incident occurred on Monday, when Williams’ lifeless body was discovered in a ditch along Highway 123 in Midland City. Investigators quickly determined that the 55-year-old man had been struck by a vehicle, which fled the scene, leaving Williams behind.
Dale County Sheriff Mason Bynum confirmed the arrest of Atkins on Friday evening. Atkins, who was taken into custody in Georgia, is currently fighting extradition back to Alabama. Once the legal process is completed, he will be transferred to Dale County to face charges.
In a statement, Sheriff Bynum expressed his hope that the arrest would offer some measure of closure to Williams’ family, particularly his wife, as they cope with the tragic loss. “We hope this arrest provides Mr. Williams’ wife and family with some sense of closure,” Sheriff Bynum said. “Our thoughts are with them as they continue to process this difficult loss.”
Atkins remains in the Grady County Jail in Georgia as legal proceedings continue. His transfer to Alabama is expected to happen soon, where he will be booked into the Dale County Jail to await further legal proceedings.
The investigation into the hit-and-run remains ongoing as authorities continue to seek justice for Williams and his family.
