Crash on Mars Hill Road

According to a report from Officer Sarah O’Hara of the Cobb County Police Department, a fatal collision led to two deaths on Mars Hill Road at Newpark Drive in West Cobb Sunday.  Investigators from the department’s Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Unit said that a black 2014 Ford Escape was heading northbound on Mars Hill Road toward Newpark Drive at approximately 7:42 p.m, while a red 2010 Toyota Corolla was moving southbound at the same intersection.

The driver of the Corolla lost control of the car, and it crossed over a double yellow center line into the oncoming lane.  The Escape and the Corolla collided head-on.

Drivers and passengers taken to WellStar Kennestone

The drivers and passengers of both vehicles were transported to WellStar Kennestone Hospital.

The driver of the Escape, Allison Carroll, 24, of Powder Springs, and Ashley Bratton, a passenger in the Corolla, died of their injuries. The Corolla’s driver, Braden Price, 20, of Hiram and a 16-year old male passenger were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigators think the speed of the Corolla contributed to the accident, and charges are expected to be filed.

The investigation is still ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Cobb County Police Department’s STEP Unit at 770-499-3987.

STEP Unit

The STEP Unit is one of the department’s Special Operations units, and  is described on the web page of the Cobb County Police Department as follows:;

“The Selective Traffic Enforcement Unit is responsible for investigating all fatal traffic crashes, enforcement of traffic laws in those areas which analysis indicates an elevated amount of crashes. They are also responsible for the administration and execution of the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program. They also take part in special security details, and investigate crashes involving Department vehicles when requested.”