Nationwide — Kayla Frazier, an African American girl from Atlanta, is spending Christmas in the hospital after a car hit her while she crossed a neighborhood street. The crash left the 8-year-old with serious injuries and a long recovery ahead.
Kayla is being treated at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, where her mother, Tia Lawson, has stayed by her side as the holiday season approaches. Lawson has been caring for her daughter in the hospital room since the crash.
According to 11Alive, the incident happened Friday afternoon in northwest Atlanta near the intersection of Joseph E. Boone Boulevard NW and Cairo Street NW. Police responded just before 4 p.m. and found Kayla injured at the scene.
Lawson said Kayla had just returned home from school when neighborhood children asked her to walk with them to a friend’s house. As they crossed the street together, most cars slowed down, but one vehicle kept moving.
The car struck Kayla and knocked her several feet down the road. Lawson said the crash was captured on video and showed the car failing to stop as the children crossed.
Doctors later confirmed Kayla suffered a spinal injury and needed two surgeries. Surgeons placed rods in her back and reattached her ear. She also suffered multiple cuts and now wears a back brace.
Kayla will need physical therapy and has been unable to speak much due to her injuries. She is expected to remain in the hospital for several more days before beginning rehabilitation.
Police told the family the driver involved will not face charges. Authorities have not released additional details about the investigation.
The family has started a GoFundMe to help cover medical and living expenses, as Lawson cannot work while caring for her daughter. It has so far raised over $1,200.