SOUTH FULTON, Ga. — A South Fulton police lieutenant died in a head-on collision in the line of duty late Tuesday.
Police said Lt. Helio Garcia was driving his patrol vehicle along Flat Shoals Road and Connell Road when another driver veered into his lane and hit him head-on.
Garcia’s family said in a statement Wednesday that he was a husband, a devoted father and the steady heart of the family.
“Helio lived his life with integrity, strength and an infectious kindness that touched everyone he met,” the family said. “Our hearts are broken by this loss, but we find comfort in the love he gave us and the memories we will carry with us forever. His legacy lives on in each of us.
“At this time, we ask for your prayers and privacy as we grieve. We are deeply grateful to the South Fulton Police Department, the City and our entire community for the outpouring of love and support during this incredibly difficult time.”
Georgia State Patrol has since identified the other driver as Santoria McLean, 31.
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Other officers rushed Garcia to Grady Memorial Hospital where he died from his injuries.
McLean was seriously injured and remains hospitalized, according to GSP.
“Our hearts are shattered. Lieutenant Garcia was more than a colleague—he was family. He served this department and this city with honor and distinction, and we will carry his memory with us in every shift, every call, and every act of service. We ask for continued prayers and privacy for his loved ones and for our officers during this incredibly difficult time,” South Fulton Police Chief Keith Meadows said.
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