According to a news release from the Cobb County Police Department their Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Unit is investigating a fatal collision on East West Connector east of Concord Road that happened on January 2 at 9:42 p.m.

Investigators report that Carol Godard, 66, of Smyrna was driving east on the East West Connector east of the Concord Road overpass in a 2000 Saturn, with a passenger, Margaret Elson, 79, also of Smyrna.

A blue 2012 Nissan Altima driven by Autumn Wilson, 37, of Austell, and a 2019 Honda Civic driven by Matilla Charles, 18, of Marietta, were traveling westward on the road when Godard crossed over the median into the oncoming lane and collided head-on with the Nissan.  The Nissan spun around and came to rest on a grassy shoulder.  The impact caused the Saturn to spin and collide with the Honda.

Godard and Elson, the occupants of the Saturn, died at the scene and their next of kin have been notified.

Wilson and Charles, the drivers of the other cars in the accident, were taken to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital and treated for minor injuries.

The report also states:

“This collision remains under investigation and anyone with any information is asked to contact the Cobb County Police Department’s STEP Unit at 770-499-3987.”

STEP Unit

The STEP Unit, which investigated this incident, is one of the Cobb County Police 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.”