A tragic collision on Sunday evening claimed the life of a bicyclist in Cherokee County. According to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, 51-year-old Carlos Moreno, of Alpharetta, was struck and killed by a pickup truck that veered across Sugar Pike Road near Canton around 5:50 p.m.
Deputies say a Rivian pickup crossed both travel lanes and collided head-on with Moreno, who was riding in the opposite direction. Sadly, he died at the scene from his injuries.
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The driver, a 42-year-old man from Canton, was taken into custody at the scene and now faces multiple charges, including vehicular homicide, DUI, reckless driving, tampering with evidence, open container violation, and driving too fast for conditions. He remains held without bond in the Cherokee Adult Detention Center.
Investigators with the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office Traffic Enforcement Unit believe that alcohol impairment and excessive speed played key roles in the fatal crash. The investigation remains ongoing.
“This accident was entirely preventable,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. “Impaired drivers are a danger to everyone on the road and can senselessly destroy lives. Separate from criminal charges, a victim’s family may also pursue a civil wrongful death claim against the responsible party.”
According to the National Safety Council, approximately 10% of all fatal automobile accidents in the U.S. involve drivers under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications. DUI-related crashes remain one of the leading causes of roadway fatalities nationwide.
The family of Carlos Moreno may have legal options moving forward, including filing a wrongful death claim to seek damages for emotional suffering, loss of companionship, and other related hardships.
“The sorrow and shock following a tragedy like this are unimaginable,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “It’s crucial that families have their rights protected as investigations unfold.”
Authorities continue to urge drivers to make responsible choices behind the wheel — and to remember that one reckless decision can devastate countless lives.
