Darrick Deshawn Rooks Death and Obituary – Darrick Deshawn Rooks, 46, of Marietta, Georgia, tragically lost his life on October 24, 2025, following an officer-involved shooting in Smyrna. Authorities reported that the incident unfolded in the early morning hours, resulting in Rooks’ fatal injuries.
According to Smyrna Police Department officials, the sequence of events began around 6:00 a.m. when officers spotted a stolen U-Haul truck in the area. Responding officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, prompting the vehicle to eventually pull over on McLinden Avenue near Concord Road SE.
Upon the truck’s stop, officers performed a felony traffic stop, a standard procedure designed to maintain safety during potentially dangerous encounters. Officers issued multiple commands to the driver of the U-Haul. During the interaction, a gunshot was fired from inside the truck. Officers returned fire in response to the perceived threat.
When law enforcement personnel approached the vehicle, they discovered that Rooks had sustained a fatal gunshot wound. Authorities confirmed that no officers were injured during the incident.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has been called in to lead the investigation at the request of the Smyrna Police Department. Following the conclusion of their inquiry, the GBI will forward the case file to the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office for review to determine whether any criminal charges are warranted.
Rooks, a resident of Marietta, leaves behind family and friends mourning his untimely passing. Details regarding his personal life, survivors, and funeral arrangements have not been publicly released.
Officer-involved shootings continue to spark public interest and concern, especially in cases involving stolen vehicles or armed suspects. Local authorities emphasized that the investigation will be thorough and transparent to ensure accountability and community trust. The Smyrna Police Department encouraged anyone with information about the incident to come forward and cooperate with investigators.
This tragic incident highlights the complex and often dangerous nature of law enforcement work, while also underscoring the risks faced by civilians involved in confrontations with police. Community leaders and advocates have called for a careful review of the facts surrounding Rooks’ death, emphasizing the importance of both public safety and the protection of individual rights.