Word is just coming in from multiple sources that a cyclist was killed in North Hollywood this morning.
According to virtually identical reports from LAist, KABC-7 and North Hollywood – Toluca Lake Patch, the rider was headed west on Oxnard Street at Radford Avenue around 6 am when he was struck by a vehicle turning right onto Oxnard from southbound Radford.
The victim has only been identified as a man in his 60s, pending notification of next of kin. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
No word on whether he was using lights and reflectors at that early morning hour, or which party had the right-of-way; there is a traffic signal at that intersection.
The driver remained at the scene, and reportedly is cooperating with investigators. And how sad is it that something like that even needs to be mentioned.
This is the 64th cycling fatality in Southern California this year, which equals the annual average for the last seven years. And it’s the 20th bike death in Los Angeles County, as well as the fifth in the City of L.A., which equals last year’s total.
My deepest sympathy for the victim and his loved ones.
Update: A source with the LAPD confirms that the driver of a truck stopped at the light before making a right turn onto Oxnard. He didn’t see the cyclist crossing in front of him as he made his turn.
The victim’s bike did have a light. However, collisions like this are why it is so important to make eye contact with any driver that poses a potential risk while you ride. If you can’t see the driver’s eyes, you have to assume he can’t see you and doesn’t know you’re there.
The officer says the rider was found with earbuds, which he may or may not have been using at the time of the collision; you can use an earbud in one ear when you ride, but it’s illegal to wear earbuds or headphones in both ears.
Update: The victim has been identified as Jose Heredia, age 64,
I’d like to comment on this article. My name is Betty Chaidez,oldest step daughter of Benjamin Torres. I’d like to thank you for alerting other readers on this trajic incident. My family is not taking it well, and its mainly anger the person at fault has not surrendered. We’ve all been going to the scene daily to alert others. Thank-you once again.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Betty. There is no excuse for leaving the scene of a collision, ever. Let’s hope that the driver has the self-respect to come forward; if not, that the police find the coward who left your step father to die in the street. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Note: I’ve reposted your comment under the story about your step-father, so people reading his death will be able see it.