CHEROKEE, GA, (April 23, 2026) — A cyclist, identified as Richard Collins, was injured Thursday in a hit-and-run crash during a group ride in Cherokee County, according to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said a North Georgia Cycling Association group ride was underway near Sugar Pike and Gannt roads when a vehicle approached from behind, repeatedly honking before passing close to the cyclists. The vehicle’s side mirror struck one rider near the back of the group, and Collins, who was riding as the group leader, was knocked off his bicycle. The driver then fled the scene without stopping.
Collins was treated at the scene for road rash and later diagnosed with a lower-spine fracture.
Authorities identified and arrested the suspected driver, 72-year-old Jerry Wayne Ross, at a nearby residence shortly after the incident. Deputies said Ross blamed the cyclists, claiming they were in the roadway.
Under Georgia law, drivers are required to maintain at least three feet of clearance when passing cyclists. Ross faces six charges, including hit-and-run, aggressive driving, and failure to maintain a safe distance from a bicycle.
The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the crash.
