6‑year‑old Atlanta boy wakes from coma 3 months after being hit by car while walking home

A Georgia family is celebrating a hopeful milestone after 6‑year‑old Tupac Staples Olds woke from a coma three months after being struck by a vehicle while walking home with his family in northwest Atlanta.

Staples was hit on May 1 near James Jackson Parkway Northwest and Jamestown Road, according to Atlanta police. A preliminary investigation found he was not in a crosswalk at the time. Furthermore, the driver remained at the scene and was not charged.

Tupac Staples Olds Suffered Severe Injuries

The impact left Tupac with a severe brain injury, a broken neck, a broken leg, internal injuries, and stomach complications, according to a verified GoFundMe created by his father, Stephen Olds.

He was rushed to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Arthur M. Blank Hospital, where he remained in a coma for nearly three months. His family said he recently began opening his eyes and responding to commands, though he still cannot speak.

Doctors say his recovery will take time, and he may need to learn remotely for the upcoming school year instead of returning to Scott Elementary, where he was set to begin second grade.

Family Struggling but Hopeful

Olds, who has six other children, said the family has been overwhelmed by the emotional and financial strain of the last three months. Both parents have cut back on work to remain at the hospital.

“It’s been a struggle, it’s been a journey,” Olds told FOX 5 Atlanta. “I’m praying he comes back at least half, 80%, 70%. Put it in God’s hands.”

He added that Tupac is showing small signs of progress: “He hasn’t been able to talk. The only thing he can do is open his eyes.”

Community Support Growing

A GoFundMe created to help with medical bills, transportation, food, and care for Tupac’s siblings has raised more than $7,000, easing some of the financial pressure as the family prepares for a long rehabilitation process.

Olds said the support has been vital as they navigate hospital stays, therapy planning, and the uncertainty of Tupac’s recovery timeline.

A Milestone, but a Long Road Ahead for Tupac Staples Olds

While waking from the coma marks a major step forward, doctors say Tupac’s recovery will be lengthy. He remains hospitalized and will soon begin intensive rehabilitation, including physical therapy, speech therapy, and cognitive recovery work.

His family continues to ask for prayers and support as Tupac fights to regain strength.