Man leaving work hit, critically injured young father riding his bike, police say

Peachtree City police said they have arrested a 38-year-old man in the hit-and-run crash that critically injured a bicyclist.

Kenneth Vialet, Peachtree City, was arrested Tuesday and charged in the crash.

Police said Vialet was returning home from work around 6:30 a.m. Saturday when he struck John Snyder, who was riding in the southbound lanes of Peachtree Parkway. Another driver found Snyder badly injured on the side of the road.

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Snyder was taken by helicopter to Grady Memorial Hospital with extensive head trauma and other injuries.

Snyder’s pastor started a GoFundMe to help cover his medical expenses.

“The kids are being cared for and staying with family. Mostly, we would appreciate prayer for complete healing and recovery, but we also recognize this will be a difficult time financially for Amy and the kids,” the page says.

According to a CaringBridge started for Snyder, the father of two underwent surgery Tuesday.

“Surgery went well! The Neurosurgeon said everything went smoothly and there were no complications during surgery. They will be able to elevate John’s head now and hopefully begin some physical therapy. John’s vital signs remain stable. They will continue to monitor his pain and lower his sedation and his pain meds as tolerated. We pray he continues to improve as he has been,” the most recent post said.

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According to a new Georgia state law, which passed July 1 of this year, drivers have to share the road with cyclists and give them at least three feet of space, change lanes to get away from them or slow down to at least 10 mph under the speed limit.

Drivers who break the law could pay hefty fines, but cyclists are concerned that that doesn’t save lives.

“We’re still scared, but we take the risk because we enjoy cycling so much,” the Southside Cycling representative said. “We really wish people would get off their phones and pay attention.”

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Police asking for public's help to find driver who hit cyclist, critically injuring him

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