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COFFEE COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) – On September 25, 2024, a tragic accident at the intersection of Bowens Mill Road and the 206 Connector claimed the life of Coffee Middle School student, 13-year-old Deanna Hicks.

In response, fellow student Sara Fields took a powerful step toward change.

During CTSO Day at the Capitol, Sara personally delivered a heartfelt letter to Senator Blake Tillery, Representative James Burchett, and Representative Angie O’Steen, urging action for improved safety at the site.

Senator Tillery was so moved by Sara’s message that he returned to ask her questions after reading the letter. As a result of her advocacy, he contacted Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner Russell McMurry, who has now launched a formal review of the intersection.

Sara’s courage and determination have sparked real momentum for change, and her community is rallying behind her efforts to make the roads safer.

WALB’s Taylor Lewis plans to speak with Deanna’s mother, Misty Hicks, and will have more on the story in our later newscasts.

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