Chloe Garcia’s life changed forever just after 6 a.m. last week when she was hit while cycling. Cobb County Police are investigating.
COBB COUNTY, Ga. — One week after being struck by a car while cycling, a 20-year-old remains in the ICU at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital. Chloe Garcia’s family said she has already undergone two surgeries, lost her leg on impact, and faces a long recovery. They are demanding answers and accountability as police continue to investigate the incident.
Garcia’s life changed forever just after 6 a.m. last week when she was hit while cycling down New McFarland Road. Her boyfriend was riding alongside her on a scooter, and both had lights on, according to her family. Chloe was struck with such force that she lost her leg at the hip.
“I can’t even believe this is real life,” her sister, Kiara Ross, said. “My sister’s only 20 years old, and now she has to go about her life with one leg.”
Doctors have performed two surgeries so far, with a third planned. Chloe’s mother, Shanta Watson, and sister remain by her side, calling her survival a miracle.
“She shouldn’t even be here,” Ross said. “Everyone says she’s a miracle. The fact that she’s still completely herself outside of losing her leg is nothing but God.”
Outside the hospital in Marietta, the family is struggling to process the trauma. Just 12 miles away, orange chalk still marks the spot where she was hit. Her family said the person driving the car—a black Mercedes AMG—was not cited or breathalyzed at the scene.
“Somebody has to pay for this. This is not right,” said Watson. “My daughter was on the sidewalk. She wasn’t even on the street.”
The family said they only learned the vehicle involved after hiring a lawyer and obtaining a preliminary incident report. They’re still waiting to understand why no citations were issued.
“She hasn’t even seen her 21st birthday,” Watson said. “You’ve ruined her life, but yet you walk around like nothing happened.”
Cobb County Police are currently investigating the crash. Garcia’s family is calling for transparency and justice, saying the driver must be held accountable—not just legally, but morally. They’re also hoping laws will change.
In the meantime, she remains in the ICU, and her family is focused on helping her adjust to life as an amputee. Anyone who would like to support the family during this time, can do so here or by contacting her sister.
