Family forgives driver in crash that killed woman

HALL COUNTY, Ga. — A community is preparing to say goodbye to a Hall County mother who was killed while riding her motorcycle.

A private visitation was held Saturday evening for Anita Strickland.

Georgia State Patrol said Strickland was heading westbound Wednesday night on Friendship Road in Buford when the driver of a Mercedes leaving a shopping plaza failed to yield and hit her.

Strickland died on the scene.

"I don't think people follow traffic laws like they should. In this situation, my mom ended up dead and it will change our lives forever. It will change many lives," said the victim's daughter, Stacy Strickland.

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Anita Strickland's family said she was the kind of person who would help anybody and spent most of her time as a volunteer at the American Legion in Buford helping veterans. She was on her way to a veteran's dinner at the time of the crash.

"I talked to her right before the accident. I told her to have fun and be careful," Stacy Strickland said.

As she prepares for her mother's funeral Sunday, the victim's daughter said she is at peace.

"I feel like God is in control and my faith is strong. Whatever is supposed to happen, will happen," she said.

The victim's son said he forgives the driver accused of causing the crash.

"You know, I forgive him. I hate it, but I forgive him though. It's not something I want to do, but it's what mama would have wanted," Scott Strickland said.

The driver is charged with second-degree vehicular homicide, which is considered a misdemeanor. He likely will not go to jail.

Some are calling for additional charges, but not Anita Strickland's son.

"I'm not one to judge on any of that. Her time was up. God called her home. Circumstances are tragic," Scott Strickland said.

Channel 2's Chris Jose met with the driver's wife. She said her husband is mourning the victim's death as well. She said she is thankful the family is forgiving him.

Cox Media Group