City says alcohol was factor in crash that killed employee

ATLANTA — A City of Atlanta employee is facing charges for causing a wreck that killed a co-worker.

A city spokesperson said alcohol was a factor in the crash.

"The City of Atlanta has a zero-tolerance policy for drug and alcohol use and routinely conducts random screenings," Interim Director of Communications Carlos Campos wrote. "An internal investigation is being conducted and we will take appropriate action based on the outcome of that investigation."

Wednesday, a former public works employee told Channel 2's Carl Willis he was worried about alcohol issues on the job.

The former employee wanted to remain anonymous, but said he warned supervisors months before 54-year-old Derryl Simmons was killed.

"I knew Derryl," he said. "That's horrible. I hate it for his family, but that should show them they need to do something."

According to the city, Simmons was a passenger in the truck and was killed when it overturned while exiting Interstate 75 southbound at Cleveland Avenue.

A city spokesperson said police were seeking arrest warrants against the driver on charges of homicide by vehicle in the first degree, driving under the influence and failure to maintain lane.

"I tried to speak up when I worked down there," said the former public works employee.

He wore his old uniform when he spoke with Willis.

"I quit working six months ago," he said. 

He also said a change needs to come.

The other worker who was injured in the accident remains at Grady Memorial Hospital. His condition and identity have not been released.

WSBTV