Police Officer Struck and Killed on Interstate

Atlanta police are mourning the death of an officer who was struck and killed by an alleged drunk driver on the interstate Tuesday night.

Around 11 p.m on Jan. 24, Senior Officer Gail D. Thomas was struck by a vehicle while assisting another officer at a traffic accident on the Brookwood Interchange ramp in between Midtown and Buckhead, according to a statement from police.

The 46-year-old woman, a sworn police officer for 15 years, died on the scene. 

“I am deeply saddened that one of our police officers lost her life in the line of duty last night,” Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed said in the statement. “Senior Police Officer Thomas was a veteran police officer whose sense of duty and commitment to public safety inspired many of her fellow officers. The City of Atlanta is quiet as we mourn this terrible loss. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and colleagues during this difficult time.”

Chasity Nicole Jones, 22, of Stone Mountain was arrested and charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving and first degree homicide by vehicle, according to police spokesman Carlos Campos.

"Ms. Jones blew a .16 on scene and refused consent for a state administered blood alcohol reading," police said in a statement. "A search warrant was obtained and blood was retrieved at Grady Hospital."

Jones is being held at Fulton County Jail.

Check back with Patch for details.