Once again, a SoCal bike rider has been killed by a hit-and-run driver.
But this time, they actually caught the heartless coward.
According to the Hemet Police Department, a man was struck by a driver around 5:36 pm Saturday, while riding east on Domenigoni Pwky near State Street.
The victim, identified as 75-year-old Hemet resident Kenneth Lauer, died at the scene before police arrived.
After witnesses provided a description of the vehicle, police searching the area spotted the vehicle. The driver refused to stop, and led officers on a brief chase before being taken into custody.
Police said the driver, who has not been publicly identified at this time, appeared to be under the influence, and believe that may have been a factor in the crash.
Anyone with information is urged to call Hemet Police Corporal Christian Coley at 951/765-2400.
This is at least the 21st bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, and the fourth that I’m aware of in Riverside County.
Lauer was also at least the sixth SoCal bike rider killed by hit-and-run drivers since the first of the year.
My deepest sympathy and prayers for Kenneth Lauer and his loved ones.
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