Oakland, California woman Kiara Bowling relearns to walk and speak after near-fatal crash involving kid drivers

OAKLAND, Calif. -- A 31-year-old woman who nearly died after being struck by a vehicle in Oakland, California is taking some of her first steps a month after the crash, as she continues recovering from a traumatic brain injury.

Kiara Bowling's family calls her a "walking miracle" after doctors and loved ones feared she might not survive.

"What a blessing because we didn't even know that she would make it one month today, and she's up walking," said Karon Markham, Bowling's aunt. "She's able to speak. She's learning. She's moving forward."

A month ago, Kiara Bowling was hit from behind by a car driven by two brothers, ages 7 and 4, who took their parents' car keys while the adults were sleeping, according to the boy's uncle. Bowling was walking her best friend's dog on an Oakland sidewalk when she was struck. When paramedics arrived, she was lying on the sidewalk without a pulse.

"It has turned really the family's life upside-down," Markham said. "She doesn't say much about the hospital itself. She knows she was injured. And I know it's hard on her because she's used to living her best life."

Markham said Bowling was hoping to get into Harvard Law after finishing a program during the summer for Harvard.

"She was really excited about that," said Markham.

Before the crash, Bowling was in her final semester at Cal State East Bay, had recently been selected as Miss California Regency International 2026 and was working toward a pre-law degree.

Now, she is learning how to walk, speak and eat on her own.

"She's learning to put a puzzle together. She's learning to color," Markham said.

During a recent visit to the hospital, Bowling expressed gratitude to the nurses and others who have supported her recovery. She also said she is eager to progress more quickly but understands the importance of pacing herself as she relearns basic skills.

One of Bowling's most emotional moments came when she was reunited with Grizzly, the dog she was walking when she was struck.

"The day Grizzly walked in, and she was lying in bed and she said, 'hi, boy,'" Markham said. "He had fluid in his belly. And I believe something going on with his lung. But he's definitely on the mend to recover as well."

The Oakland Police Department confirmed that the parents of the young boys are cooperating with authorities during the ongoing investigation.

Doctors project it may take about two years for Bowling to fully recover from the traumatic brain injury she suffered.

Markham has started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical bills and physical therapy costs.

"She has a long recovery. And she's getting there, small steps," Markham said. "And with the prayers from the world and God watching over her, she'll get there."