Charges Pending In Fatal Cherokee County Crash

CANTON, GA — The Cherokee Sheriff's Office said charges are likely to be filed in an accident that killed a Creekview High School student and injured three other teenagers, the agency said Wednesday.

The collision was reported around 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 27 on Old Orange Mill Road in eastern Cherokee County. Sheriff's Office spokesperson Jay Baker said the vehicle was traveling on the road near Ga. 20/Cumming Highway when it left the roadway and crashed into a tree.

Stephen Smith, 17, who was a front-seat passenger in the car, died in the crash while the driver and two additional passengers were injured. Fred Engamba, 17, of Canton, the driver of the vehicle, was treated and released by WellStar Kennestone Hospital, said Cherokee Sheriff's Office spokesperson Jay Baker. Chase Burr, also 17 and from Canton, remains hospitalized at Kennestone for injuries he received in the crash.

A 15-year-old backseat passenger, who also lives in Canton, was treated and released Tuesday evening from the hospital. That accident victim's name and age will not be released at this time. Baker said accident investigators have obtained a search warrant for Engamba's blood.

"Although charges are likely, investigators will wait until they complete their investigation and until toxicology results return before determining what charges to file," Baker said.

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Creekview High School Principal Dr. Mark Merges informed parents of the tragedy in a letter dispatched Tuesday afternoon. The school "experienced a great loss" in Smith's death. Dr. Merges noted other students were seriously injured in the collision, and the Creekview family is keeping those accident victims in their prayers.

"Stephen was an energetic student who was known as a friend to all," the principal said. "He always came to class in a good mood with a smile on his face. He was always willing to help out classmates, and loved Track and Field, especially the jumping events."

Creekview counselors will be on hand over the next few days for students who may have questions or need support. The school is also encouraging parents and/or guardians to discuss these sudden tragedies with their youngsters.

"On behalf of the Creekview High School staff, we extend our sincerest commitment to continue providing an environment of academic and personal growth for your child," the principal said. "We will stick together and help each other to get through this very sad and difficult time."

Photo 1: Stephen Smith. Credit: Michelle Thomas Photography

Photo 2: Chase Burr. Credit: Michelle Thomas Photography