Nationwide — Chatanna Patterson, an African American teacher from North Carolina, tragically died after a driver fleeing police crashed into her at a gas station in Atlanta, Georgia. Her sister survived the crash but remains in serious condition in the hospital.
Georgia State Patrol said the crash happened at a Grant Park gas station when 51-year-old Chatanna Patterson stood outside her parked car. A speeding driver hit the sisters as he tried to escape a traffic stop.
According to 11Alive, troopers said 26-year-old Fre’Shun White was driving about 90 mph in a 55 mph zone on I-20 when they attempted a stop. White sped away, lost control while exiting at Hill Street, and crashed into the sisters’ vehicle.
The impact killed Chatanna at the scene. Her sister, who was inside the car, suffered serious injuries and was rushed for treatment. Authorities said White’s attempt to flee set off the chain of events that led to the crash.
Family members said Chatanna had just arrived from North Carolina for a planned sister bonding retreat. She had been in Atlanta for less than 48 hours before the tragedy unfolded.
“She’s the prayer warrior of the family,” said her sister Taiwanna Patterson. “She’s kind of like the glue that holds our family together.”
Taiwanna said the family is struggling to process the sudden loss and feels numb. She said the trip was meant to be a reunion between sisters. Chatanna leaves behind three children and six grandchildren.
The surviving sister remains in serious condition as doctors continue to monitor her recovery.
Taiwanna also questioned the police pursuit that led to the crash and called for a review of how such chases are handled. She said, “So that we don’t end up having this happen again, not only just for my family, for any family in Georgia. I mean, I don’t understand the purpose of chasing anyone, and especially on a wet road.”
Georgia State Patrol said the incident shows the risks tied to drivers who flee law enforcement. The agency said traffic crashes like this highlight the dangers of reckless driving decisions.