Just as the lunch crowd was beginning to disperse, a 36-years old mother visiting from North Carolina and her 2 year old daughter, and her sister, age 33, along with her sons, ages 3 and 4, from Newton County, exited the restaurant.

According to Covington Police Chief Stacey Cotton, Barnes was in his vehicle and drove up onto the curb, striking the group while they were on the sidewalk. Cotton also said that Barnes stuck another car and the restaurant.

According to a man who witnessed the accident, Barnes was smiling and laughing as he struck the group. He then fled the scene, but was quickly apprehended.

"It could have been an accident or it could have been intentional, we just don't know yet," said Cotton. "We have no idea of provocation - it appears to have been a random accident."

"We are thinking of the family," said Covington Mayor Sam Ramsey during a press conference. "And we are praying for them."

Ramsey went on to thank the police department for their hard work in the matter.

Barnes mother Mary told the Associated Press that her son has suffered with depression for years. When told what happened she responded, "Lord have mercy."

As of press time, the mother from North Carolina was in stable condition at Newton Medical Center, while the Newton County mother was in stable condition at Atlanta Medical Center. All three children were life-flighted to Scottish Rite Children's Hospital. The two Newton County boys were in stable condition; the 2-year old North Carolina girl was listed in critical condition.