In a heartbreaking turn of events, a 35-year-old man lost his life in a tragic crash on Mars Hill Road in Cobb County . The accident, which involved a single-vehicle crash, occurred when the driver reportedly lost control and struck a utility pole. Cobb County Police Department officials are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause and whether external factors like traffic laws violations, road conditions, or driver impairment played a role in this fatal traffic crash.
Location, Impact, and Ongoing Investigation
The crash took place near Newpark Drive, a typically quiet area between Stilesboro Road, Cowan Road, and Riverside Parkway,routes frequently traveled by residents and commuters alike. The vehicle, a Toyota Corolla, veered off the road, reportedly due to a momentary loss of control, possibly triggered by slippery pavement or sharp road curvature.
Emergency response units, including the fire department and Cobb Police, arrived on the scene quickly. Despite their efforts and the immediate dispatch to WellStar Kennestone Hospital, the driver,identified later as Braden Price,was declared deceased due to serious injuries. Nearby residents from Azure at Riverside Apartments were shaken by the loud collision, with some noting previous incidents on the same stretch.
Vehicles and Mechanical Factors Under Review
The vehicle involved, a Toyota Corolla, is now undergoing a mechanical evaluation, alongside a list of other makes that have seen prior incidents in the area such as the Ford Escape, Nissan Frontier, Suzuki GSX600R, Yamaha YZFR3, and International 4300. Investigators are inspecting whether any issues with the car’s steering system or brakes led to the crash or if the driver was attempting to avoid something in his lane of travel.
Law Enforcement & Public Participation
The Selective Traffic Enforcement Program and Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program are both actively supporting the local investigation. Authorities such as Officer Sarah O’Hara, Officer Sydney Melton, and Sergeant Eric Mistretta have asked the public to assist. Anyone with dashcam footage or who witnessed the head-on crash is urged to contact investigators immediately. Even minor details could help piece together the full timeline of the fatal traffic collision.
Social & Emotional Impact
The crash has sent ripples through the community,neighbors have taken to social media to offer condolences, demand action, and share memories of the deceased. Allison Carroll, Ashley Bratton, and Tom Regan have all expressed their grief and called for infrastructure changes. Some, including families from Marietta City Schools and Dowell Elementary School, are calling for safer school zone protections, while others are sharing stories of hope and healing like those of Simone’s Kids and a local leukemia survivor.
Infrastructure, Roads, and Traffic Conditions
Authorities are examining the condition of nearby streets like Cowan Connector, Pine Mountain Road, and Power Spring to identify potential hazards. The crash also caused extensive damage to local infrastructure, cutting off electricity and communications. Utility crews worked through the night to restore power to affected buildings, including portions of the MLB All-Star Village and businesses preparing for the MLB All-Star Game near Truist Park.
City officials are considering adding traffic advisory signage, additional lighting, and new barriers. A town hall meeting is scheduled near Smyrna Market Village to hear resident feedback and brainstorm solutions.
Road Safety and Enforcement Programs
Increased emphasis is being placed on driver education and awareness programs, such as those backed by the Acworth Police Department and Cobb County DOT. Emphasis is also being placed on preventing future serious traffic crashes through the enforcement of traffic laws, routine patrols of department vehicles, and community-driven reporting tools where locals can report issues or sign up for alerts and road condition updates.
New technology integrations, like apps offering a personalized timeline for crash alerts and hazard locations, are being promoted. Drivers are being reminded to always buckle up, keep their focus, and be mindful of changing road and weather conditions.
Legal Aspects and Next Steps
Following such incidents, families often face difficult decisions, from dealing with insurance to possible legal claims involving accident investigation and potential wrongful death actions. The team at Ted Law Firm is monitoring the situation closely. While the focus remains on understanding what went wrong, the broader impact of such accidents can result in long-term legal implications,especially if negligence or faulty infrastructure is involved.
Names like William J. Schirrmacher, Joseph T. Gilbert, Ludene G. Harris, and Errol J. Simms have surfaced in prior similar cases, and legal communities are watching for potential patterns.
Remembering the Victim
Braden Price was remembered fondly by classmates at North Cobb High School, mentors at the University of Georgia, and family members who worship at McEachern Memorial United Methodist Church. A memorial has been planned with support from Winkenhofer Pine Ridge Funeral Home.
He had previously volunteered with Camp Sunshine, loved Clydesdale horses, and had even attended outreach events at Simone’s Kids. His tragic passing has not only devastated loved ones but also reignited conversations about how fragile life on the road can be.
