On April 14, a devastating traffic incident unfolded in Atlanta that resulted in the death of 19-year-old Cooper Schoenke near the intersection of Moreland and McLendon Avenues. The fatal crash occurred during a high-speed police pursuit initiated on Interstate 20, when a Georgia State Patrol trooper attempted to stop a vehicle driven by 23-year-old Faduma Mohamed of Stone Mountain. According to official investigators, Mohamed was observed speeding and erratically changing lanes on the interstate, prompting the traffic stop attempt. When Mohamed failed to stop, the pursuit continued onto Moreland Avenue, ultimately ending in a catastrophic collision. Mohamed allegedly ran a red light, directly impacting Schoenke's vehicle. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but Schoenke was pronounced dead, marking a tragic outcome of the pursuit. The Georgia Department of Public Safety has since released an official statement investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Location and Infrastructure

The accident occurred at the critical intersection of Moreland Avenue and McLendon Avenue, a busy urban corridor in Atlanta's east side. This area is known for its complex traffic patterns, featuring multiple lanes, signalized intersections, and significant pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Moreland Avenue serves as a major north-south arterial route, connecting several neighborhoods and providing access to key city infrastructure. The intersection where the collision took place is near several notable landmarks, including local businesses, residential zones, and community facilities. Traffic control devices at this location include standard traffic signals, crosswalks, and street lighting, though the effectiveness of these safety measures was tragically compromised during this incident.

Legal Rights and Considerations

In situations involving police pursuits and fatal accidents, several legal considerations come into play. Georgia law recognizes the complex nature of such incidents, balancing law enforcement responsibilities with public safety concerns. Potential legal actions may involve investigating the justification and conduct of the police pursuit, examining potential negligence, and assessing damages. Victims' families may be entitled to explore various compensation avenues, including wrongful death claims, which could address medical expenses, funeral costs, lost potential earnings, and emotional distress. The statute of limitations for filing such claims in Georgia typically requires action within two years of the incident. Insurance considerations will likely involve multiple parties, including municipal liability, individual driver insurance, and potential third-party claims.

Related Resources

Emergency Services

• Atlanta Police Department: (404) 546-7911
• Grady Memorial Hospital Emergency Services: (404) 616-1000
• Georgia State Patrol: (404) 624-7500

Traffic Safety Resources

• Georgia Department of Transportation Safety Division
• Atlanta Vision Zero Initiative
• Georgia Highway Safety Office

Support Services

• Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Georgia Chapter
• Georgia Victim Compensation Program
• Local Grief Counseling Services

Legal and Regulatory Information

• Georgia Traffic Laws
• Georgia Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims
• Police Pursuit Guidelines in Georgia

Note: This report is based on preliminary information and is intended for informational purposes only. Ongoing investigations may reveal additional details.