Officer suffers fatal injuries from head-on collision

An Atlanta area police officer died from injuries that were sustained in a head-on collision on Tuesday night.The Georgia State Patrol is investigating a fatal crash involving an officer that occurred on Tuesday night.More News: Arrests made after 12 puppies found dead in abandoned coolerAccording to Georgia State Patrol, the crash happened around 11:15 p.m. on Flat Shoals Road near Hiddenbrook Trail in South Fulton County.Preliminary investigation indicates that a black 2016 Infiniti QX70, operated by 31-year-old Santoria McLean of Atlanta, was traveling west on Flat Shoals Road. A South Fulton Police Department Ford Explorer, operated by Lt. Helio Garcia, was traveling east on the same road. For reasons still under investigation, the Infiniti crossed the center line into the eastbound lane and struck the patrol vehicle head-on.More News: U.S. Secret Service assists in arrest of Upstate man, AG saysBoth drivers sustained injuries and were transported to Grady Memorial Hospital. Lieutenant Garcia later succumbed to his injuries. McLean remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to troopers.The Georgia State Patrol's Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team (SCRT-C) responded to the scene and is conducting a thorough investigation. Charges are pending upon the completion of the investigation.The Fulton County Sheriff's Office described Lt. Garcia as a dedicated public servant who exemplified courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting and serving his community.