An 8-year-old girl has lost her life in a vehicular incident on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard in Dunwoody, that took place around 9:25 p.m., on September 6. The young victim was traveling in a Honda Civic that was struck from behind by a Toyota Tacoma as the driver attempted to navigate onto the road from an apartment complex, as Rough Draft Atlanta reported. Tragically, she was pronounced dead at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta following the collision.
The driver of the Tacoma, Jose Alejandro Cuahuizo-Varela, reportedly fled on foot, according to details from the release, but was apprehended by Doraville officers shortly thereafter. While attempting to escape the scene by running away, the aftermath left the community shaken after the crash in Dunwoody. FOX 5 Atlanta confirmed Cuahuizo-Varela's subsequent hospital treatment and charges which include homicide by vehicle, DUI, and reckless driving, among others.
Following the incident, Cuahuizo-Varela was transported to Northside Hospital before being booked into the DeKalb County Jail. He faces multiple charges, including homicide by vehicle, hit and run, DUI, driving without a license, causing serious injury, and reckless driving. As Rough Draft Atlanta stated, records indicate that he remains in jail as of the last update.
In the wake of the tragedy, Sgt. Michael Cheek from the Dunwoody Police Department voiced his distress, especially as a parent himself. "I'm a father myself and my heart breaks for that little girl's mother," Cheek said. "You know, we see a lot of things. And I do think we do get pretty tough on some things, but it's always difficult when kids are involved," he elaborated, expressing a sentiment that resonates deeply with the gravity of the situation, as FOX 5 Atlanta reported. In a stark reminder of the unnecessary risks associated with drinking and driving, Sgt. Cheek emphasized that many alternatives like rideshare services and calling a family member are readily available, and there is no excuse for driving under the influence.
