GSP Investigating Fatal I-20 Crash Following Pursuit; Suspect Charged

Authorities are investigating a fatal crash that occurred on Interstate 20 following a brief pursuit initiated by a Georgia State Trooper. The incident resulted in the death of 19-year-old Cooper Schoenke.

According to a statement released by law enforcement, a trooper in a marked patrol car attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle observed driving at high speeds and weaving erratically between lanes on I-20, posing a danger to other motorists. The driver, identified as Faduma Mohamed, chose to flee, continuing her erratic driving. The pursuit lasted less than two minutes before Mohamed’s vehicle struck the vehicle driven by Cooper Schoenke.

The statement emphasized the tragic loss of Cooper Schoenke and expressed condolences to his family and loved ones. It also underscored the responsibility of drivers to comply with lawful traffic stops, stating that compliance is the key factor in preventing most pursuits and use-of-force incidents. Authorities assert that Mohamed’s dangerous driving prior to the pursuit initiated the chain of events leading to the fatal collision.

The Georgia State Patrol’s pursuit policy is described as being based on law, training, and a standard of objective reasonableness. A comprehensive review of the incident is currently underway, involving the Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team and the Office of Professional Standards.

The statement acknowledged the difficult balance law enforcement faces in protecting life while also apprehending individuals who disregard the safety of others. Authorities pledged to hold those who break the law accountable and ensure they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of Georgia law.

Faduma Mohamed has been taken into custody, and charges related to the incident are expected. The investigation is ongoing.