An investigation has determined that alcohol was a factor in a crash that killed an Atlanta public works employee over the weekend.

Derryl Simmons, 54, of Decatur died Saturday when a garbage truck in which he was riding overturned while exiting I-75 southbound at the Cleveland Avenue off ramp, police said.

Another worker remains in Grady Memorial Hospital.

“Saturday’s fatal car crash involving employees of the Department of Public Works was a horrible tragedy that has deeply affected our workforce,” said Carlos Campos, interim director of communications for Mayor Kasim Reed. “A criminal investigation has determined that alcohol was a factor in the incident.”

An internal investigation is being conducted and appropriate action will be taken, he said.

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Carleigh Knight (left) and her sister, Natalie Rogovin, look at Christmas ornaments while shopping at Kudzu Antiques + Modern in Decatur on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025. (Natrice Miller/AJC)

Credit: Natrice Miller