Justice for Terrell Lowdermilk
By Darius Spearman (africanelements)
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Milton Police Lieutenant’s Alleged Hit-and-Run
In a deeply disturbing incident, former Milton Police Lieutenant Christopher Bradshaw stands accused of a hit-and-run that resulted in the death of Terrell Lowdermilk. Bradshaw, a highly decorated officer with 14 years of service, allegedly fled the scene after striking Lowdermilk, who was exchanging information with another driver following a minor fender bender on an interstate (atlantablackstar.com). The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. on August 13. Lowdermilk, a 36-year-old commercial truck driver, was on an Interstate 75 exit ramp when he was struck (atlantablackstar.com).
The Marietta Police Department successfully tracked Bradshaw down two days after the crash, leading to his arrest (atlantablackstar.com). Subsequently, Bradshaw was fired from the Milton Police Department, bringing an end to his career (atlantablackstar.com). This swift action underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the department’s commitment to accountability.
Felony Charges and Potential Sentencing
Christopher Bradshaw, 48, is now facing felony charges of homicide by vehicle and hit-and-run resulting in serious injury or death (atlantablackstar.com). He remains in jail without bond, according to the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office website (atlantablackstar.com). If convicted under Georgia state law, Bradshaw could face a prison sentence of up to 15 years (atlantablackstar.com).
It is important to note that Bradshaw was off-duty at the time of the crash. Proving he was under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be challenging due to the two-day delay in his arrest (atlantablackstar.com). This delay can significantly impact the collection of crucial evidence, such as toxicology results. In other cases, the absence of immediate breathalyzer tests or blood draws has been a point of contention, potentially weakening the prosecution’s ability to prove intoxication (wrtv.com).
Understanding Homicide by Vehicle
Homicide by Vehicle: This charge typically applies when a person causes the death of another while operating a vehicle in a negligent or reckless manner. It often involves factors such as driving under the influence, excessive speeding, or other forms of dangerous driving. The specific definitions and penalties vary by state, but the core element is a death resulting from the driver's actions behind the wheel.
The Investigation Unravels the Truth
Investigators used a variety of methods to identify Bradshaw as the suspect. Debris from his 2020 Chevrolet Silverado proved crucial, as it contained traceable serial numbers that linked him to the crash (atlantablackstar.com). This meticulous attention to detail by the investigative team was paramount in solving the case.
Furthermore, traffic camera footage, witness interviews, and the Cobb County Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center all contributed to Bradshaw's arrest (atlantablackstar.com). These combined efforts demonstrate the effectiveness of modern policing techniques in piecing together complex incidents. The Milton Police Department issued a statement expressing condolences to Lowdermilk's family and affirming their commitment to transparency and accountability during the ongoing investigation (atlantablackstar.com).
Family's Grief and Call for Justice
Terrell Lowdermilk’s family is understandably devastated by his sudden and tragic death. They have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and support his mother, Cindy Hayes, through this unimaginable loss (atlantablackstar.com). Olivia Harris, Lowdermilk’s cousin, described him as an ambitious man deeply dedicated to his job and family, with a dream of retiring his mother (atlantablackstar.com).
Terrell's father, Terence Lowdermilk, expressed outrage that a police officer allegedly committed this act, stating that Bradshaw “violated his oath” (atlantablackstar.com). His mother, Cindy Hayes, echoed these sentiments, stating that her son's life was “stolen in such a senseless act—one committed by the very institution meant to protect him” (atlantablackstar.com). These powerful statements highlight the profound impact of this incident on the family and their struggle to reconcile the actions of an alleged perpetrator who was sworn to uphold the law.
Felony Hit-and-Run Explained
Felony Hit-and-Run: This charge applies when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing identification or rendering aid, and the collision results in serious injury or death. The “felony” designation indicates the severe nature of the consequences, often leading to significant prison time and fines. It emphasizes the legal and moral obligation of drivers to remain at the scene of an accident, especially when severe harm has occurred.
A Similar Case in Indianapolis
A similar fatal hit-and-run incident occurred in downtown Indianapolis on February 18, 2025, resulting in the death of 46-year-old Andrea Gibbs (wishtv.com). The crash took place near West Michigan Street and North Illinois Street (wthr.com). The vehicle that struck Gibbs fled the scene before officers arrived, and initially, police could not describe the vehicle (wthr.com).
However, a 33-year-old man was arrested in connection with the fatal hit-and-run on February 20, 2025 (wthr.com). IMPD Chief Chris Bailey extended condolences to Ms. Gibbs’ family and commended officers and investigators for their work in identifying and arresting the suspect (wthr.com). Witnesses provided key information, and evidence at the scene helped detectives identify the suspect’s vehicle (wishtv.com). Court records revealed that the arrested individual had numerous previous traffic violations, including speeding and reckless driving (wrtv.com). This case, like Lowdermilk’s, highlights the critical role of community cooperation and thorough investigation in bringing alleged perpetrators to justice.
Comparison of Hit-and-Run Cases
Terrell Lowdermilk Case (Georgia)
Victim: Terrell Lowdermilk, 36, Black commercial truck driver.
Alleged Perpetrator: Christopher Bradshaw, former Milton Police Lt.
Incident Date: August 13, 2025, 2:30 a.m.
Charges: Felony homicide by vehicle, felony hit-and-run resulting in serious injury or death.
Arrest Delay: 2 days, impacting intoxication evidence.
Key Evidence: Debris with serial numbers, traffic camera footage, witness interviews, Real Time Crime Center.
Family Reaction: Devastated, launched GoFundMe, expressed outrage at officer's alleged actions.
Andrea Gibbs Case (Indianapolis)
Victim: Andrea Gibbs, 46, pedestrian.
Alleged Perpetrator: 33-year-old man (name not specified in prompt).
Incident Date: February 18, 2025.
Charges: Arrested in connection with fatal hit-and-run.
Arrest Delay: 2 days.
Key Evidence: Witness information, scene evidence to identify vehicle.
Perpetrator History: Numerous previous traffic violations (speeding, reckless driving).
The Broader Implications of Police Accountability
The case of Christopher Bradshaw raises significant questions about police accountability, particularly when officers are off-duty. The public entrusts law enforcement with a high standard of conduct, whether on or off duty. When an officer is accused of such a serious crime, it can erode public trust and create a perception of impunity. Terrell Lowdermilk's father articulated this concern, stating that Bradshaw “violated his oath” (atlantablackstar.com).
The family's perspective, particularly Cindy Hayes's statement that her son's life was “stolen in such a senseless act—one committed by the very institution meant to protect him” (atlantablackstar.com), highlights the profound impact of alleged police misconduct on the Black community. These incidents often fuel discussions about systemic issues and the need for greater oversight and transparency within law enforcement. The outcome of Bradshaw's case will be closely watched as it could set a precedent for how similar incidents involving off-duty officers are handled in the future.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Darius Spearman has been a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.
