A driver in his 50s required surgery after an attacker allegedly struck him repeatedly and hit him with a firearm.
SMYRNA, GA — Police are searching for an unidentified man accused of beating and pistol-whipping a driver after a daytime road rage dispute continued into an apartment complex in late June.
The victim, a man in his 50s, suffered significant injuries and required surgery, according to Smyrna police. Investigators said the confrontation began near Cumberland Boulevard and Cobb Parkway after one vehicle cut off another in traffic. The drivers continued along the road before the victim noticed a silver vehicle following his black car into the residential complex.
Police said the victim approached the silver vehicle to speak with its passenger. A physical fight then began, and the passenger allegedly punched the victim in the face several times, knocked him to the ground and struck him with a handgun.
The victim managed to get back on his feet after the assault but collapsed again, police said. Emergency crews took him to a hospital, where he underwent surgery. Authorities have not released his name or provided a more recent update on his condition.
Smyrna Police Lt. Meredith Holt said the driver was badly beaten and suffered injuries serious enough to require an operation. Police have not disclosed whether the firearm was discharged during the attack, and no gunshot injury was reported.
The silver vehicle was driven by 18-year-old Hayle Kirkpatrick, according to police. Investigators said she got out of the vehicle during the assault but later drove away with the passenger. Police obtained an arrest warrant charging Kirkpatrick with obstruction after authorities said she refused to identify the man who was traveling with her.
The obstruction allegation against Kirkpatrick is separate from the expected charges against the unidentified passenger. Police said the passenger could face aggravated assault and aggravated battery charges if he is identified and arrested. No court proceedings or attorney information for Kirkpatrick had been announced.
Investigators released video connected to the attack and an image of Kirkpatrick as they worked to establish the passenger’s identity. Police have not released the suspect’s name, age or a detailed description, and authorities have not announced an arrest in the assault.
The investigation remains active. Police have not disclosed what happened immediately before one vehicle reportedly cut off the other or whether additional witnesses have been interviewed.
Author note: Last updated August 4, 2026.