Georgia Man Accused of Causing Crashes Across Multiple Counties While High on Xanax Before Sitting Inside Popeyes to Watch the Aftermath, Police Say
DULUTH, GEORGIA — A 53-year-old Georgia man is accused of plowing his Volvo into multiple cars across two counties while high on Xanax — then calmly walking into a Popeyes restaurant to watch the chaos he caused, according to officers.
The suspect, James Mann, faces charges including DUI, hit-and-run, reckless driving, and driving on the wrong side of the road, the Duluth Police Department confirmed.
Crash Spree Began in Johns Creek, Continued Into Gwinnett County
Investigators say Mann’s impaired-driving spree started Wednesday afternoon in Johns Creek, where he allegedly struck several vehicles before speeding into neighboring Gwinnett County.
Police say the same beige Volvo was later seen driving erratically in Duluth — even traveling on the wrong side of Pleasant Hill Road around 4:45 p.m.
Multiple drivers reported:
- Their cars were hit or clipped
- A near head-on collision that was barely avoided
- The suspect’s Volvo jumping a median before grinding to a halt in front of Popeyes
When officers arrived, the vehicle had finally broken down, its front end smashed after repeated impacts.
Suspect Found Sitting Inside Popeyes, Eating and Watching the Scene Unfold
Witnesses quickly pointed officers toward the suspect — who wasn’t running or hiding.
Instead, they found Mann sitting calmly inside Popeyes, watching police and bystanders react to the series of crashes he allegedly caused.
A Duluth police officer said in body-camera footage:
“He was sitting in Popeyes the entire time. He was literally sitting at that table watching everybody.”
Police say Mann had even ordered food as if nothing unusual had occurred.
When he eventually stepped outside, officers called him over and took him into custody.
Xanax Bottle Found in Car; Suspect Displayed Signs of CNS Depressant Use
Officers noted that Mann had:
- Droopy eyes
- Slurred speech
- No odor of alcohol
A search of the Volvo uncovered a prescription bottle of 120 Xanax pills, filled that very same day — but seven pills were missing, according to investigators.
A Johns Creek Police drug-recognition expert later evaluated Mann and determined he appeared to be under the influence of a central nervous system depressant, consistent with Xanax usage.
Mann was transported to a nearby hospital for toxicology evaluation and subsequently cited on multiple violations.
What’s your take on this dangerous Georgia incident? Should penalties be harsher for drug-impaired drivers who cause multiple crashes? Share your thoughts and follow the latest crime news at WaldronNews.com.