According to a report from Officer Sarah O’Hara of the Cobb County Police Department, the Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Unit is investigating a fatal collision on Hartman Road, north of Lake Careco Road in South Cobb, today at around 6:31 a.m.

STEP Unit investigators reported that a white 2007 motor coach with its four-way flashers on was in the turn lane of Hartman Road preparing to turn right into the Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral. A Harley Davidson motorcycle was heading toward the motor coach from the south. When the driver of the motor coach turned right, the motorcycle struck the motor coach.

James Dennis, 20, of Temple, Georgia, was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital where he died of his injuries.

The driver of the motor coach, Fertissue Thomas, 45, of Morrow, was not injured in the collision.

A witness told police that immediately prior to the collision, the motorcycle had improperly passed her in the center turn lane at a high rate of speed. Investigators believe that excessive speed was a factor in the collision and do not expect charges to be filed in the accident.

According to the report, “The investigation is 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, which investigated this incident, 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.”