In a quiet stretch of Villa Rica, Georgia, a tragic hit-and-run Monday morning claimed the life of 36-year-old Brittany Dutton of Carrollton, leaving her family, friends and neighbors grappling with shock and sorrow. Carroll County Sheriff’s Office deputies say Dutton was struck and left in the roadway on Villa Forest Drive, suffering severe injuries. She died at the scene before help could arrive.
The search for the person responsible unfolded quickly after police were alerted to the crash. Deputies responded to the scene where Dutton was found on the pavement with severe trauma. It wasn’t long before investigators connected the incident to a vehicle seen fleeing the scene. Local law enforcement worked through early morning hours to track down the suspect.
By early Tuesday morning, 24-year-old Mark Enriquez of Carrollton was located by authorities and taken into custody without incident. Carroll County Sheriff’s Office officials confirmed that Enriquez is now facing a slate of serious charges, including homicide by vehicle, hit-and-run, aggravated assault and reckless driving.
Investigators say Enriquez fled the scene immediately after the crash, prompting a swift manhunt. Community members shared updates on social media as law enforcement canvassed the area and tracked the suspect. There were no reports of any other victims involved in the incident.
Friends and family described Brittany Dutton as a caring and vibrant woman whose loss is deeply felt across Carrollton and beyond. In the moments after the tragedy, neighbors expressed disbelief that someone could leave another human being injured and in need, underscoring the community’s pain and grief.
The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active. Detectives are reviewing evidence from the scene, including witness statements and vehicle data, to piece together exactly what happened in the final moments before the crash.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information about the events leading up to the crash to come forward as they continue to build the case. Dutton’s family has asked for privacy as they mourn and prepare to honor her life.
