According to a news release from the Cobb County Police Department, a fatal accident occurred on Hicks Road Saturday morning, March 16,  at around 6:17 a.m.

Investigators report that Jony S. Hernandez-Funes, 24, of Mableton was driving a 2003 Audi TT southward on Hicks Road.  On a left curve near Frontier Trail he lost control of the vehicle, left the right side of the roadway, and hit a mailbox. The Audi continued southbound on the grass shoulder passing the intersection with Swamp Fox Way. The car continued along the shoulder, striking a curb and traveling over a sidewalk, until it  finally crashed into a large tree and overturned.  Hernandez was ejected from the car.

He was pronounced dead at the scene, and his family has been notified.

What is the STEP Unit?

The STEP Unit, which investigates fatal traffic crashes, 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.”