News Summary
Jacksonville faces a concerning rise in bicycle-related fatalities, with two cyclists tragically killed within a week. On Old Kings Road, a 36-year-old man was struck by an SUV, while the second incident on Pecan Park Road took the life of a man in his mid-30s. Safety advocates urge greater awareness among both cyclists and drivers to prevent further tragedies as the community grapples with these heartbreaking events.
Jacksonville’s Tragic Weeks for Bicyclists
Jacksonville is grappling with an alarming increase in bicycle-related tragedies, as two distinct incidents resulted in the untimely deaths of two cyclists within a short span of just one week. These occurrences have raised serious concerns about safety on our roads, prompting a need for heightened awareness among both cyclists and drivers.
A Heartbreaking Afternoon on Old Kings Road
This past Friday, a 36-year-old man tragically lost his life while riding his bicycle on Old Kings Road North. According to reports, the incident took place at approximately 3:24 p.m.. A 17-year-old girl was driving her SUV southbound on New Kings Road when, unfortunately, the cyclist crossed into her path. The resulting collision was devastating, with the front of the SUV hitting the bicyclist as he attempted to ride eastbound on Old Kings Road North.
Witnesses detail that the SUV came to a halt in the median after the accident, while the bicyclist was thrown onto the roadway, where he was pronounced dead at the scene. It’s worth noting that he was not wearing a helmet at the time of this tragic event. Thankfully, the driver and her three passengers, which included an 18-year-old man, a 15-year-old girl, and a 10-year-old boy, walked away uninjured, all secured by their seatbelts at the time.
A Second Blow to the Bicycling Community
The woman driving the Toyota showed no signs of impairment and has been cooperating with police as investigations continue. This incident represents not only a grave loss but also brings the yearly total for traffic fatalities in Duval County to 148, with 9 of those involving cyclists. The local police force is currently diving into the evidence to clarify the circumstances surrounding both tragic accidents.
Safety Measures and Awareness Needed
It is essential for drivers to recognize their responsibilities as well. Motorists should always be on the lookout for cyclists and obey traffic laws, creating a safer environment for everyone. Through a combined effort between cyclists and drivers, Jacksonville can strive to prevent further tragedies like those that have recently unfolded.
What Lies Ahead for Jacksonville Cyclists
Here’s to hoping for safer roads ahead in Jacksonville, as we extend our deepest sympathies to the families affected by these tragic circumstances.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Motorcyclist Airlifted to Hospital After Collision with SUV in St. Johns County
Jacksonville Faces Traffic Tragedies: Fatalities and Injuries
Tragic Series of Crashes on Interstate 95 in Jacksonville
Tragic Bicycle Accident Claims Life of 61-Year-Old in Jacksonville
Additional Resources
- WNCT: Bicycle Rider Taken to Hospital After Crash in Jacksonville
- WITN: Jacksonville Police Offer Safety Guidance Following Deadly Bicycle Crash
- First Coast News: Fatality Reported in Crash Involving Bicyclist
- Action News Jax: Traffic Alert – Accident with Injuries
- Jacksonville.com: 2 Teens Died in Separate Crashes in Jacksonville Area
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
