BikinginLA

This is not the news we wanted to start the week with.

Or end the last week with, for that matter.

Multiple sources are reporting that an ebike rider was killed in Vista Saturday afternoon. And this time, it looks like the victim on an actual ped-assist bicycle.

According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, the victim was approaching the intersection of South Melrose Drive on Breeze Hill Road around 3:38 pm when he reportedly ran the red light at South Melrose, and was struck by a driver traveling north on Melrose.

The victim, identified only as a 26-year old man, died after being taken to a local hospital.

The driver, who was not identified, remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators; authorities did not suspect they were under the influence.

Video from the scene shows the mangled bike lying in the street, with a relatively narrow ebike frame and operable pedals clearly visible

As always, whether the victim actually ran the red light depends on whether there were any independent witnesses or video of the crash, or if investigators relied solely on the word of the driver. And we have no way of knowing for sure that the victim was riding a legal Class 1, 2 or 3 ped-assist bike.

But it serves as a reminder to stop for red lights, no matter what kind of bike you’re riding — especially with cross traffic. And never ride beyond your ability to safely stop in an emergency.

More than one of the stories mentioned that it was not known if the victim was wearing a helmet, which one matters if the victim died of a head injury, or if his other injuries may have been survivable, with or without one. Something that neither we nor they have any way of knowing at this time.

This is at least the 41st bicycling fatality that I’m aware of in Southern California this year, and the eighth we know about in San Diego County.

My deepest sympathy and prayers for the victim and his loved ones.