Early this morning, we learned from philly.com the tragic news that another cyclists was struck and killed in Bucks County. Details are very preliminary, but the cyclist, subsequently identified as Kevin Williams, was apparently struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver who was traveling north on Rt 13 in Bristol Borough. Mr. Williams is the third killed in Bucks County in recent months. In September, Matthew Petzel was killed in Southampton Township. In August, 14 year old Josh Goldinger was killed in Lower Makefield Township.
The crash involved a silver Mercedes, which should have significant front end damage. We will post more information on this tragic event as details become clear. Those with information on the crash are encouraged to contact Bristol Police at 215-788-7813.
Unfortunately, Bucks County is not alone in suburban tragedies involving cyclists and pedestrians this year. In Montgomery County, 14 year old pedestrian Kelly Williams was struck and critically injured by a speeding driver who has subsequently been charged with assault. Kelly was initially blamed for the crash by local TV media coverage. Also in MontCo, a cyclist was critically injured by a hit-and-run motorist in KoP. In June, an unidentified woman was struck and killed in Camden.
I joined the staff at the Bicycle Coalition because I want to change the perception that these deaths (and 100+ motorist deaths in our region this year) are merely a cost of modern transportation, that nothing can be done to avoid them.
Not one death is acceptable, and a lot can be done to avoid them. This message is being heard in Philadelphia. If you want to know what you can do to help begin to change suburban perceptions of traffic deaths, reach out to me. Leonard@bicyclecoaliton.org
I am a member of BCGP and Bike Bucks County
I frequently ride near the scene of the latest fatality. The saddest part is that these are preventable. A major problem I see occurring among commuting cyclists is their lack of visibility. I shudder when riders riding in dark conditions with dark clothing and no lights or maybe a weak light or reflector. We need a way to reach these people and educate them or perhaps provide them with lights and a afety vest. Would take work with municipal or public safety officials
Update: the victim was apparently struck by a vehicle that was drag racing. http://www.drgleesonlaw.com/kevin-williams-56-victim-in-bicycle-accident-along-route-13-in-bristol-borough/
I agree more can and should be done to get to the root cause of each crash to try and prevent similar crashes … Bicycles and motorized vehicle crashes. Better visibility, redesigned roads, education and training for ALL drivers of ALL vehicles.
Not one crash is acceptable.