SOUTH FULTON, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - The South Fulton Police Department is mourning the loss of one of its own after a crash overnight claimed the life of a longtime officer.
Lt. Helio Garcia, a dedicated member of the department for more than six years, died early Wednesday morning after being rushed to Grady Memorial Hospital with critical injuries.
According to officials, Garcia was not only a veteran officer but also one of the founding members who helped build the South Fulton Police Department from the ground up.
The crash happened around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday on Flat Shoals Road near Connell Road. Authorities say Garcia was on duty and driving a department-issued vehicle when a 2016 Infiniti QX70 veered into his lane, striking his patrol car head-on. His Ford Explorer was left heavily damaged in the collision.
Garcia and 31-year-old Santoria McLean, the other driver, were taken to Grady Memorial Hospital, where Garcia died. McLean remains in serious condition.
Georgia State Patrol (GSP) is now leading the investigation. While details are still being gathered, South Fulton police say alcohol may have played a role in the crash.
GSP says McLean will likely face charges once she’s released from the hospital.
Garcia leaves behind a wife and three children.
His family released the following statement:
“Helio was not only my husband—he was the love of my life and the steady heart of our family. He was a devoted father who loved his children—Angelina Rosa Pittman, Nicolas Anthony Garcia, Isabella Echeverri, and our late son, Giovanni Armando Garcia—with all of his heart. He also shared a special bond with our son-in-law, Jacob Pittman. Helio lived his life with integrity, strength, and an infectious kindness that touched everyone he met. 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.”- Mrs. Garcia
South Fulton Councilmember Carmalitha Gumbs released this statement on Garcia’s death:
“It is with profound sorrow that I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fellow officers of police Lieutenant Helio Garcia. His life was one of honorable service, unwavering commitment, and quiet strength. Lt. Garcia gave his all for this city, and his tragic passing in the line of duty is a painful reminder of the sacrifices made daily by those who wear the badge.
As a daughter of a law enforcement officer, I hold a deep and personal respect for those who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. I have always been—and remain—supportive of all law enforcement and the critical work they do.
In this time of heartbreak and loss, my office will do all it can to support Lt. Garcia’s family and his colleagues. That includes making counselors and support resources available to those who need them. We grieve together, and we will honor his legacy with compassion, strength, and an enduring commitment to service."
South Fulton Councilmember Helen Zenobia Willis released the following statement:
“I am heartbroken by the devastating loss of Lieutenant Helio Garcia, a true public servant who embodied courage, compassion, and character. His sudden passing is not only a tragedy for his family and the South Fulton Police Department, but for our entire city.
As a member of a law-enforcement family, I understand the dedication and the daily courage it takes to serve. Lt. Garcia represented the very best of those values. His impact was felt not only in his actions, but in the way he carried himself—with humility, professionalism, and purpose.
On behalf of District 3, I offer my heartfelt prayers to his family, loved ones, and the men and women of our police department. May his legacy live on through our collective efforts to foster a city rooted in justice, service, and compassion.”
This is a developing story. Stay with Atlanta News First for updates.
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