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Funeral Set for Dacula Runner Killed By Alleged Drunk Driver

By Nathalie Pozo
Published  January 6, 2016 11:55am EST
News
FOX 5 Atlanta

GWINNETT CO., Ga - Funeral services are set for a Dacula runner killed after being struck by an alleged drunk driver on New Year's Day, according to the Gwinnett County Police Department.

Services for Karen Ray will be held Saturday Jan 9that 2:00 PM at Hamilton Mill United Methodist Church in Dacula.

Gwinnett County Police said Ray was struck and killed by 32-year-old Cristian Arizabaleta in Lawrenceville at around 7:30 New Year's Morning. 

Investigators believe the marathon runner was jogging in a designated crosswalk on South Pucketts Mill Road at the time of the crash. 

Detectives said Arizabaleta hit a curb and two traffic islands while heading south on S.R. 124 before striking Ray, then drove over the sidewalk and hit several trees, coming to a stop.

"GOD has gained an angel," said Lisa Smith who is a close friend of Rays.  While at the crash site Sunday, Smith told FOX Five's Nathalie Pozo that she and Ray used to run together every week and participated in marathons.

"I can't see peripheral vision and so she asked me to run with her and she was my left eye," said Smith.  "She kept me safe and I wish I could have kept her safe," said Smith who knew Ray for eight years .

Members at Hamilton Mill United Methodist Church prayed for the 56-year-old and her family Sunday.  Associate Pastor Jason Mincey said Ray was heavily involved in programs at the church and dedicated herself to Sunday School Classes for young girls and small groups.

"Anytime that you lose anyone, especially someone who has that type of personality, the ability to uplift others, you miss them terribly," said Mincey.  "Karen was one of those people."

Ray's friends said she was an inspiration and had a huge impact on those she met. "Her giving spirit was just incredible," said Greg Smith.  "Such a kind hearted woman."
 
Gwinnett County Police charged Arizabaleta with homicide by vehicle in the first degree, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, failure to maintain lane and reckless driving.