Car used in high-speed chase was stolen from murder victim, family says

ATLANTA — Police are still putting together the pieces after a dramatic police chase that ended in a crash Wednesday in northwest Atlanta. But we've learned of a terrible twist.

Channel 2 Action News has learned that the car used in the chase belonged to a man who was reportedly shot and killed last week in his Jonesboro home, according to the victim's family.

On Wednesday, police said a stolen car with three people inside took off from an attempted traffic stop on Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway around 5 p.m.

Police said the driver of the stolen car hit several other cars, sending one into a man standing outside. The car then crashed into the American Deli restaurant parking lot.

Officials identified the driver of the stolen car as Jonathan Rice, whom police arrested.

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Brian Sexton lives on Salina Drive in Jonesboro. His neighbor was the victim shot to death during the home invasion last week.

“The guy came down the steps with a machete, shot him in the chest and killed him,” Sexton said.

Sexton said he also knows Rice, who has a lengthy criminal history involving aggravated assault and stealing cars.

“I see him walking up and down the street,” Sexton said.

Sexton said he hopes police find the man who killed his neighbor.

“Rest in peace. It’s a sad thing,” he said.

Rice is facing hit-and-run and stolen vehicle charges. He’s due in court Friday morning.

Cox Media Group