The Gwinnett County District Attorney Patsy Austin-Gatson is set to deliver an update this Friday regarding the tragic incident that took place in March at the Mall of Georgia, where a 4-year-old girl named Abigail Hernandez was struck and killed by a vehicle, according to WSB-TV. Standing with her father and sister outside Dick's Sporting Goods when a pickup truck ran into her, the young Hernandez's life was tragically cut short. Her family, ever since the accident, has ardently sought justice for her untimely death.
In a prior statement, the Gwinnett County Police Department informed FOX 5 Atlanta that the 18-year-old driver involved in the crash would not face criminal charges, asserting that their comprehensive investigation indicated no signs of reckless driving, substance influence, or an attempt by the driver to flee the scene. However, this did not stem the tide of public outcry, with dozens converging outside the Gwinnett County Courthouse demanding that charges be pressed.
Abigail's heartbroken mother, Marina Hernandez, told FOX 5 Atlanta, "A car came out of nowhere." She added, "You know nothing will ever bring her back, but I just want justice and, hopefully, you know, we keep pushing for that." In response to the incident, the district attorney's office decided to re-evaluate the case after initially deciding not to file charges. DA Austin-Gatson has since indicated that misdemeanor charges against the teen driver are being considered, although the exact nature of the charges has yet to be disclosed.
The Gwinnett police's decision not to charge the driver sparked protests from those who found solace in the arms of communal grief and anger. During a news conference slated for 11:30 a.m. this Friday, the DA will likely provide more information regarding the potential charges, which come in the wake of the completed police investigation.
