Flags were lowered to half-staff to honor fallen South Fulton Police Department Capt. Helio Armando Garcia III
“You’re never promised tomorrow, so do everything in love,” said his 16-year-old daughter, Isabella. “Be the things you loved most about the people who are gone. Continue to love, continue to forgive and continue to grow. My father’s death has been the only thing that has brought me tears because he was nothing but pure love.”
Lt. Helio Armando Garcia III was killed in an on-duty head-on collision when another vehicle veered into his lane along Flat Shoals Road last week. Garcia was promoted to captain posthumously. He was laid to rest on April 21, 2025, following a memorial service at World Changers Church and a processional motorcade from Woodstock.
In an executive order issued last Friday, Gov. Brian Kemp called it “fitting and proper to recognize Lt. Garcia’s service to Fulton County and the State of Georgia” by lowering the flags as a mark of respect. Gov. Kemp said, “…In honor of his life of service, flags at the State Capitol and across Fulton County will be lowered” until sunset Monday, the day of Garcia’s memorial service.
Garcia, 47, was among the founding officers of the South Fulton Police Department. He had served since its inception in 2018, where he was known for setting high standards of accountability and professionalism. He is one of two original officers from the department who have died in the line of duty.
South Fulton Police Chief Keith Meadows said of Garcia’s legacy, “He’s been not only a leader of this police department, but he’s also been a great friend to me and this organization.” Meadows said, “He meant a great deal to me personally.”
Capt. Garcia is survived by his wife and three children.
Garcia’s father, Helio Garcia Jr., said the family is still trying to make sense of it all. Many consider Garcia’s death preventable, and that’s what made it so hard to say goodbye. “I see here so many people he must have touched, you don’t know how proud he has made me today.”
Charges are still pending for the suspect in this case. She remains in critical condition at Grady Memorial Hospital. The Georgia State Patrol is leading the investigation.
Honor. Respect. Remember.
“You’re never promised tomorrow, so do everything in love…”
Isabella Garcia
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Photo courtesy: WSBTV Atlanta