Police Release Statement on Officer-Involved Shooting

Atlanta police said Tuesday afternoon that the man killed by officers last night in a gun battle in downtown Monday night was riding in a vehicle loaded with drugs.

Darius Smith, 18 of Greer, SC was riding in a car driven by 18-year-old Greer resident, Isaiah E. Erby going the wrong way down Ivan Allen Jr. Boulevard at approximately 7:47 p.m., spokeswoman Elizabeth Espy said Tuesday.

Police noticed the wrong-way vehicle and tried to initiate a traffic stop. Erby tried to make a U-turn but hit another car at Ted Turner Drive. Smith and Erby fled the vehicle, but Erby was quickly captured by officers.

Smith was shot and killed by police in the rear parking lot of the Aloft Atlanta hotel after he opened fire on officers while fleeing. No citizens or officers were injured, Espy said.

Investigators examined the vehicle and discovered more than two pounds of marijuana; more than 60 grams of cocaine; 10 Ecstasy pills; nearly 6 grams of MDMA; $6,000 in cash; a black mask and black gloves, and two handguns inside, according to Espy.

Erby has been arrested and charged with cocaine trafficking, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, Espy said. Erby is being held without bond inside the Fulton County jail.