‘He did not deserve that:’ 70-year-old DeKalb cyclist killed by hit-and-run driver on Thanksgiving

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — Dekalb County Police is searching for the driver who hit a cyclist and left him on the side of the road.

The retired father died days after he was hit and the family is searching for answers about the driver.

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“They are for sure that a vehicle hit him,” said Rashida Collier about what she’s heard from DeKalb County Police Investigators about what happened to her father.

Barry Collier, 70, was a retiree who enjoyed spending time cycling daily.

“He definitely loved cycling it was something he enjoyed. He enjoyed being out in nature,” said Collier.

Barry was cycling on Crossvale Road on Thanksgiving Day when he was hit by a car. Technology on his bike alerted his family.

“He actually has a GPS on his bike, so it sent me a notification and it also gives whoever’s at the scene my phone number,” said Collier.

The driver never stopped and left Barry on the side of the road.

“He was paralyzed from the neck down and terrible brain trauma from it. That’s why we were never able to speak with him,” said Barry’s other daughter Jamila Wilkes. “Imagine if that was your family member on Thanksgiving and you were waiting on him. Put yourself in our shoes.”

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Barry’s family and fellow cyclists are getting the word out in case someone knows the driver.

“They know that they hit Barry. Barry had massive injuries. It had to be a very violent crash,” said Mitch Howell from Frog Cycling.

“I know it may have been a mistake, but at least I wish you would’ve stopped to at least render aid,” said Collier.

Barry’s family was left heartbroken. His wife of nearly 50 years and his two daughters believe someone needs to be held accountable.

“He was a human. He did not deserve that,” said Collier.

Collier’s funeral is set for Tuesday at 1 p.m. in Conyers at Gregory B. Levett and Sons.

His family and dozens of members of the cycling community plan to be there to show support and raise awareness about the dangers cyclists face.

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