Acworth Woman Found Guilty But Mentally Ill in Crash That Killed 5-Year-Old Decatur Boy
DECATUR, Ga. — A jury has convicted an Acworth woman in connection with a high-speed crash that killed a 5-year-old boy in Decatur, according to DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston.
On February 25, 2026, jurors found Michelle Wierson, 59, guilty but mentally ill of Homicide by Vehicle in the First Degree and guilty of Reckless Driving in the death of Miles Jenness, 5.
Crash Details
Investigators said the crash occurred around 5:13 p.m. on September 27, 2018, at the intersection of Midway Road and South Candler Street.
Miles and his father, Sam Jenness, were stopped at a red light when Wierson’s SUV struck their vehicle from behind while traveling 51 mph in a 25 mph residential zone.
The impact forced both vehicles across the intersection and into a grassy area. A third vehicle was also struck, though its occupants were not seriously injured.
Sam Jenness suffered a head laceration and briefly lost consciousness. When he regained awareness, he found his son — properly secured in a car seat — unconscious and pinned inside the vehicle.
Neighbors and bystanders helped remove Miles and attempted lifesaving aid before paramedics transported him to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston. Doctors later determined his brain and spinal injuries were not survivable. Miles died two days later, on September 29, 2018.
Defendant’s Behavior and Trial Findings
Authorities said Wierson exited her vehicle calmly after the crash but became combative when an off-duty DeKalb County Police officer arrived. She reportedly attempted to run into traffic before being taken into custody by DeKalb County Police and MARTA Police officers.
At trial, defense attorneys argued Wierson experienced a psychotic break and believed God had told her her daughter was in danger. Jurors ultimately concluded she was mentally ill but still legally responsible for her actions, returning a verdict of guilty but mentally ill.
Sentence
DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Courtney L. Johnson sentenced Wierson to:
- 15 years total
- 5 years in prison
- 10 years on probation
The Georgia Department of Corrections will determine her mental health treatment plan. As part of probation, Wierson is prohibited from driving and must comply with ongoing medical and mental health requirements.
Case Investigation
The case was prosecuted by the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Homicide and Gangs Unit. The initial investigation was led by Decatur Police Department Detective Hensel.
Officials said the conviction brings long-awaited accountability in a case that deeply impacted the Decatur community and the Jenness family.
