A tragic incident unfolded outside a Kroger supermarket in Atlanta on Wednesday, 6th May, resulting in the death of 49-year-old Giselle Perry. The victim, who was the aunt of Atlanta Falcons football players A.J. and Avieon Terrell, was struck by a speeding vehicle while waiting in her parked car, according to local reports.
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The incident occurred at approximately 3:20 p.m. at the Kroger located on Wesley Chapel Road. Surveillance footage reportedly captured the moments leading up to the crash, showing a car racing through the parking area before colliding with Perry’s vehicle near the store’s entrance. The force of the impact was significant enough to send other cars onto the pavement, injuring a pedestrian who happened to be on the sidewalk at the time.
Perry had been waiting in her car after dropping her mother off at the supermarket when the crash occurred. Her husband, Laddyan Perry, expressed his grief and described his wife as “great, gorgeous, everything that’s good,” highlighting her unwavering support for her nephews throughout their careers.
Eyewitness Tony Lackey, a nearby barber, recounted the chaotic scene, stating, “We saw and heard the car coming, and two seconds later, boom, a loud bang.” He noted that it appeared as though the vehicles involved had been in a severe explosion, with one car striking another violently enough to push it against a wall.
According to reports from local outlets such as WSB-TV and Atlanta News First, the driver of the car that caused the accident, along with the pedestrian, were both taken to hospital with serious injuries. The police have yet to release further details regarding the driver’s condition or any potential charges.
As news of Perry’s passing spread, both A.J. and Avieon Terrell shared heartfelt tributes on their social media platforms. A.J., 27, posted a black-and-white photograph of himself with his aunt, accompanied by the poignant message, “I can still hear you.” Avieon also shared a tribute featuring a photo of Perry, paired with the song “Proud of Me” by artists Fridayy and Meek Mill.
The local community has shown support for Perry’s family in the wake of this devastating loss. Tyeisha Wilson, the daughter of the driver involved in the crash, expressed her sorrow over the incident. She shared that her mother had “blacked out” while driving and was unaware of the events that unfolded. To honour Perry’s memory, Wilson placed flowers outside the supermarket, stating, “I wanted to say my condolences and leave flowers for the woman. I’m really sorry about what happened, but I just wish things could have happened differently.”
As investigations continue, the impact of this tragedy extends far beyond the immediate family. Tributes from the Atlanta Falcons community and local residents highlight the profound sense of loss felt throughout the area. Giselle Perry’s legacy as a devoted aunt and supporter of her nephews will surely endure as family, friends, and fans remember her vibrant spirit.
Authorities are expected to provide more information as the investigation progresses, while community members access and reflect on the shockwaves this incident has sent through the tight-knit neighbourhood. The impending updates will likely offer clarity in this unfolding story, while discussions surrounding road safety and the unpredictable nature of such accidents continue to resonate within the public discourse.