Distracted Driver Kills Inmate On Work Detail: Police

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA — The driver who hit and killed an inmate assigned to a a work detail Wednesday, has been identified, as well as the victim.

The inmate has been identified as Hunter O’Conner, 22, of Mableton. His family has been notified of his death. O’Conner was following behind the work detail bus on foot to control approaching traffic when he was struck by a car approaching from behind.

The car was driven by Jennifer Adkins, 44, of Buford. Investigators determined Adkins was distracted and did not see O’Conner. There were no other occupants of the vehicle and no other injuries. Adkins was determined to be at fault for the accident and has been charged with second degree vehicular homicide, distracted driving, and following too closely. She was arrested and transported to the Gwinnett County Detention Center without incident.

Gwinnett County Police Department officers responded to a report of a pedestrian hit by a vehicle at about 9:42 a.m. The accident occurred on Lawrenceville Highway near the intersection of Lawrenceville Suwanee Road. The inmate was on a work detail and struck by an approaching vehicle and died at the scene as a result of his injuries.

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Photos courtesy Gwinnett Police Department