According to a news release from Officer Annielo Penirelli of the Cobb County Police Department a fatal accident occurred on South Cobb Drive near Barclay Circle this morning just after 6 a.m.

Investigators from the Cobb County Police Department’s Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Unit report that a 2015 Kia Soul, driven by Kadijah Miller, 24, of Marietta, was headed west on South Cobb Drive, east of Barclay Circle. A Buick Lucerne, driven by Gerard Smith, 56, of Marietta, was heading east on South Cobb Drive east of Barclay Circle. Miller crossed into oncoming traffic and collided with the front of the Buick.

Miller was taken to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital with serious injuries. Smith died on the scene. His next of kin have been notified.

 According to the news release, “This collision remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the Cobb County Police Department at 770-499-3987.”

What is the 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.”