For the third time in just four days, someone riding a bicycle has been killed in a Southern California crash.
This time in Fullerton.
And it’s unclear whether the victim rode into the back of a parked vehicle, or may have been struck by a hit-and-run driver.
According to a press release posted to Facebook by the Fullerton Police Department, the victim was found lying in the roadway on northbound Beach Blvd north of Rosecrans Ave around 12:55 pm Saturday.
Police investigators concluded that the victim, identified only as a man in his late 30s, rode into the back of a truck parked illegally in a no-stopping zone, and fell off his bike.
He died at the scene, despite the efforts of firefighters.
However, commenters to the Facebook post complained that the cops version of events just doesn’t take sense.
The first said the victim was struck by a hit-and-run driver directly in front of a friend’s house, and that local residents provided CPR until first responders finally arrived 30 minutes later.
Meanwhile, more than one person suggested it was more likely that the victim was struck by a driver while trying to pass the truck, while others suggested that a slight rise and clear sight lines make the official version unlikely.
Hopefully someone saw it, and can tell police investigators what really happened. Anyone with information is urged to Fullerton Police Traffic Accident Investigator Manes at 714/738-6815.
This is at least the sixth bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, and the first that I’m aware of in Orange County.
It follows other fatal crashes in Yucaipa and Pomona.
Update: The victim has been identified by family members as Robert C. Galvin. A crowdfunding campaign has raised a little more than half of the modest $12,000 goal.
My deepest sympathy and prayers for Robert C. Galvin and his loved ones.
Thanks to Lois for the heads-up.
