UPDATE: Bicyclist killed by hit-run driver east of low bridge

Don Brubeck July 15, 2022 (7:52 pm)

Very sad news. Condolences to this person’s family and loved ones.

Roms July 15, 2022 (7:52 pm)

The idiots from SDOT posted a pic on Twitter with the dead cyclist right in the middle, under a tarp. Can’t that they turn the brain on at times?

George July 15, 2022 (9:52 pm)

I would guess that feed is automated. Dispatchers enter the location of the incident in a system and then SDOT can see if there’s a visual. This is tragic, but please consider how to respond in situations like this.
- WSB July 15, 2022 (10:14 pm)
  
  No, it’s not automated – there are actual humans in the SDOT traffic center. (SPD Tweets by Beat, for example, is automated, and has no visuals.) That said, mistakes are possible. We have a no-bodies, covered or otherwise, policy, and yet I can recall a time or two when we (briefly) posted an image that had something we didn’t intend to show but didn’t catch when dealing in the thumbnail-size images shown by the content-management system.

V July 15, 2022 (7:53 pm)

Passed by on the bus as traffic was allowed to move again. A gruesome scene. Did not see any vehicle on scene that may or may not have been involved.That area always seemed dangerous to me for cyclists with the volume of cars criss-crossing. I hope the cops are able to provide some answers to their family.

Jasmine July 15, 2022 (8:19 pm)

I was in my car went around and seen the person and bike laying in the middle of the road. It was heartbreaking. I also didn’t see any car or person on scene just cops, firefighters and 1st responders. Hopefully traffic cameras will help.
foop July 15, 2022 (8:27 pm)

This area is one of the safer ones in seattle. That path allowed you to completely wrap around the bridge without sharing pavement with a car. The crossing areas are generally not used by normal traffic (I think its only harbor traffic?) so it’s really not that bad. That said, this stuff needs to end. This infrastructure could be better. A lot of cyclists will go straight off of the bridge rather than wrap around, partially due to the overgrowth, partially due to convenience. This is another example where cycling is given the least direct path and that failure to provide efficient structure introduces these opportunities. If we combined the need for traffic calming and the idea of giving bikes and walkers priority of direct pathing, I think we’d see goals with mutual means.
- Amy McGuire July 16, 2022 (11:38 am)
  
  I agree with your comments wholeheartedly! Thank you. We need to prioritize safety for people — NOT CARS. And we need improvements in bike infrastructure. This could have been anyone crossing the road on a bike. Very sad and unnecessary. Sending love to the man’s family during this difficult time.
- wscommuter July 16, 2022 (11:39 am)
  
  I don’t at all understand your point. I bicycle through this area several times a week and really appreciate good bike lanes, etc. . The wrap around works just fine. What possible bike-friendly infrastructure change do you think would make any sense? It is a bridge for trucking to serve the port. How on earth could anything be done differently for bikes that wouldn’t stupidly impede the bridge traffic? This is not a place for “traffic calming” or for prioritizing bikes over cars. It is a key infrastructure component for serving motorized traffic that already has an excellent bike-friendly path in every way – the path is in great condition, double-lanes and fully segregated from traffic. Your extremist view is why people don’t take bicyclists seriously.
  - Roms July 16, 2022 (4:44 pm)
    
    Wscommutter, you’re wrong. Where did you see that this area cannot be prioritized for bicycles? In the City Charter? In the State Constitution? In the US Constitution? Somewhere in the Bible? Well, it’s defined nowhere but in your head. You call people extremists in your comment for something they are not even asking for. Extremism is only in your head here. Are people asking for prioritizing bikes over motor traffic in that area? No, they’re asking for safety for bicycles. And, clearly, as proven by this tragedy, more safety in the area (and many others in this city) is needed. Your “excellent bike-friendly path in every way” comment is just wrong. Open your eyes, stop living focused on yourself only.
  - Roms July 16, 2022 (4:51 pm)
    
    Try to ride East-bound during peak commute hours among aggressive drivers and trucks, around 7 AM, and see if this enchanted vision you have still holds true. Yes, yes, “change your commute time, bla bla bla.” Well, not everybody has that luxury.
    - wscommuter July 17, 2022 (12:00 pm)
      
      7-7:30 is exactly when I ride EB through this area3-4 days every week. There is no difficulty navigating the trucks on the path. Your comment is non-sensical. It is a port. The trucks have to access the port. We’re fortunate to have bike infrastructure that allows us to ride through that exact zone with two drives to cross, safely and easily. Truckers routinely see me and stop to allow me to cross; and yes, it requires me paying attention and exercising caution. No drama/no whining.
  - Kevin on Delridge July 16, 2022 (6:08 pm)
    
    Your extreme lack of imagination is why I won’t take you seriously.
  - WSHERON July 18, 2022 (12:33 pm)
    
    Thank you WSCommuter.
- Dan July 16, 2022 (9:54 pm)
  
  Heavy news that someone died crossing.
  
  To share perspective, going around, cyclist cross in front of heavy trucks and/or fast traffic at two more crosswalks, then eventually cross 2 to 3 lanes at east marginal. (There was a fatality crossing east marginal a few years ago). Overall, it’s not safe at all and it is slow.
  
  Going straight thru, there are two traffic merges to deal with. This is not terribly safe, but still a bit safer than it sounds. Arguably a merge at traffic speed is safer than crossing in front of 5 lanes of traffic before being on east marginal (which has further routine dangers on it as you head to SODO or downtown)
  
  Constructively, this could be fixed if the tee intersection were removed at the immediate east side of the bridge. There is almost a bike path set up down on the northern sidewalk, would only need to cross one land of traffic. Return bicycle traffic could be accommodated too if that same northern sidewalk on the eastern harbor island bridge were expanded. In this case, it’s both safer and faster than crossing spokane or going around.
Ann July 15, 2022 (9:01 pm)

I saw no vehicle from the bus I was on. I am sure those/ the person who hit cyclist is very shaken. Surely removed before traffic allowed to pass. The bike appeared to be small, all black electric bikes – folded nearby. I wept for the parents or if an adult- all loved ones. RIp- Bless the hearts and souls of witnesses.
- WSB July 15, 2022 (9:29 pm)
  
  It was a hit-and-run, police say, which would be why no other vehicle was in view.
- Lyn July 15, 2022 (9:54 pm)
  
  You are sure that the person who hit cyclist “is very shaken”, yet apparently not shaken enough to stop, aid, and assist at the scene. Maybe they will be ‘shaken” by a class 2 felony, which occurs with a fatal hit-and-run.
  - Mark47n July 16, 2022 (4:48 am)
    
    They were on a bus. Also, by the time traffic was permitted to pass (like busses) I’m sure the scene was well under control, no need for someone on a bus to lend aid at that point.
  - Ted July 25, 2022 (3:09 pm)
    
    A friend of mine who lives nearby said a witness thought the wreck was intentional. The driver of the car intentionally hit the cyclist.
- V July 16, 2022 (1:14 am)
  
  No, the covered body was still on the ground as we passed by twice making a huge loop from west to eastbound lanes to get into West Seattle. Police were still investigating and SFD as well as paramedics already left the scene. We were the second bus in front of the scene and I had already caught a glimpse on the traffic cam when I wanted to see what the hold up was. It is not a sight you can unsee. I’m deeply sad and hope the police can track down the driver to bring some sense of peace to this man’s family. This is a sobering reminder to me of how badly people drive in the area. It’s a danger for everyone whether you’re in a car, on a bike or on foot. I’m constantly on alert as a pedestrian to not only look out for cars before, while and during a crossing but to also anticipate a driver’s moves. It’s outrageous that many people do not pay attention to their surroundings while driving which is why I see so many accidents. Not everyone should receive a drivers license.

zephyr July 15, 2022 (8:02 pm)

8:01 pm Such horrible news. I am sad for the rider and their family, friends, and loved ones.

west sea neighbor July 15, 2022 (8:12 pm)

Not blaming anyone before facts are in, but as a decade plus bike commuter through this intersection I’ve felt increasing danger over the last couple of years. There is a sense of uncontained aggression on the road (with bicycle riders as well). People on bikes are so incredibly exposed that they will always lose a confrontation with a vehicle. I can only hope that people try to look at each other as human beings with families and try to accommodate one another. Maybe that is wishful thinking.

Seattlite July 15, 2022 (10:02 pm)

West Sea Neighbor: Your comment hits at the heart of the problem…aggression. I witness it everyday as I am sure that most of you do too. The aggression is scary and not at all conducive to safe streets for bicyclists or drivers or pedestrians. We are all living in uncertain times which can create anxiety, aggression. I am so sorry for the death of the bicyclist. Hopefully, there are cameras in the accident area that will help find the driver.
- Long-timer July 17, 2022 (10:30 am)
  
  We were hit by a road-rage hit-and-run driver in January, who backed up and sandwiched a car into us twice. Police thought they found the driver, but it was a different one minutes apart, a couple of blocks away. It took until July to get the car repaired, due to a labor shortage, supply chain problems, and delayed parts. Repairs dragged out, so I had to pay for some of the $$ expensive car rental.My passenger is still waiting for surgery — an old injury aggravated by the accident. (Yes, staffing shortages).The level of aggression since traffic increased as more people went back to the office is unlike anything I’ve seen in this city. Stressed out people are taking their grievances out on people they think of as strangers. But the people being injured and dying could just as well be their neighbors, kids’ teachers, their doctor, favorite barista.
Rocket July 16, 2022 (9:47 am)

I too have noticed a massive increase in aggression against cyclists over the past two years. I ride several different bikes including a front loading e bike I carry my two daughters in and a rear loading long e bike that can hold one of my kids. My wife and daughters and will ride those two bikes together and even just during the 2 mile ride to the Junction we often are screamed at for existing. when on the long tail e bike I travel at 25 to 30 mph and people still pass me in the center lane going down California. Fauntleroy is often just as bad. Just a couple weeks ago we were riding to the market and a man and his female passenger buzzed us with their car on a flat section of California and screamed at us to get in the bike lane. There is no bike lane there and what rows painted in the road. We also were going 22 mph at the time which is not slowing anyone down (we catch and pass most any speeders at the lights). When I yelled back at them to learn how to drive they pulled in front of my wife and stopped their car (what happened to their hurry?). This is just one example. After riding home from a glorious Ms win over the Blue Jays last Sunday we were riding up Delridge in the bike lane, as we passed Morgan there was a man waking in the bike lane 300 yards ahead. I rang my bell and he did not move. We were trapped in the lane with a raised edge on the sidewalk side and a column of car traffic on the left. My fiver year old was in the front of the bike. Thank heavens I was in front because my wife’s bike has a higher center of gravity and I am a much larger more confident bike handler. The man not only did not move but clearly intended to do us harm reaching back to try to strike me. So I pedaled hard and while going slightly uphill with a loaded bike weighing 475 lbs got up to 13 mph and brushed him with the front of the bike and knocked him back with my shoulder and making him feel the physics. It knocked him back enough my wife with our other daughter in tow without forcing me into traffic (but just barely) allowing us to ride away as he chased after us and screamed at us.I could keep going. I refuse to be bullied off the road and will continue to ride legally and everywhere I should. I have now started carrying mace and a bench made clipped to each pocket of my shorts/pants as I ride to be prepared to protect myself and my family from the madness so many of you feel and express. I know riding a bike in a country designed to please cars is dangerous but I love it and it is just a better way to get around the peninsula and into the city than a car. You all need to look in the mirror before you decide it’s somebody else bringing this terror on the road. These assaults come from Every color and every class of people and it is shameful. The times I am driving it’s clear the crazies are out but people are definitely targeting cyclists either due to their vulnerability or a poor understanding of right of way or just plain old spite. Shame on those who forget the roads are not their personal freeway, and shame on those who use canards like licsense and tax bikes (I buy gas, I pay FIT, I own a house, the upkeep the road needs from my bike use is nonexistent) and I will not bow down to the intimidation.
- Chemist July 16, 2022 (3:14 pm)
  
  there was a man waking in the bike lane 300 yards ahead. … The man not only did not move but clearly intended to do us harm reaching back to try to strike me. So I pedaled hard and while going slightly uphill with a loaded bike weighing 475 lbs got up to 13 mph and brushed him with the front of the bike and knocked him back with my shoulder and making him feel the physics.
  
  I’m sorry that this person was walking in the bike lane you intended to use, but instead of slowing down and showing patience you sped up and hit a vulnerable road user who was also violating a rule of road use? Hitting someone who is walking is also against the law and has a vulnerable user escalation by RCW 46.61.526
  - JN July 16, 2022 (9:51 pm)
    
    Chemist, I believe you didn’t pick up on the section where Rocket described him as “clearly intending to do us harm reaching back to strike me“. In this case they were in the right in preventing an assault upon themself and the rest of their family following behind them, I can personally attest to the damage a pedestrian can inflict on a cyclist as I was laid out by a homeless man on the Burke-Gilman trail throwing some trash into my wheel, causing a crash.
    - Chemist July 16, 2022 (11:57 pm)
      
      I read that as no contact made and it sounded like some distance since I also read that they took a 475 lb load up to 13 mph when they intentionally ran into the person, which is no small effort or amount of force to put into a vulnerable body on the road. There is no “right” to traffic violence on vulnerable bodies anymore then you’d have had a “right” to punch the person who threw stuff at your bike wheel. You have a right to perhaps sue them for bodily injuries, but not retaliation and thinking you do is part of the problem aggression Rocket was decrying.
    - Rocket July 17, 2022 (7:11 am)
      
      I was ringing my bell and yelling. The man, rather than step onto the sidewalk, responded by reaching for something and taking an aggressive stance. Why would I stop when I see he is going to attack us? I am on a bicycle with a 5 year in the front of it and my wife is behind me with our 7 year old. Should I have waited for him, a large angry looking man with something unclear in his hand and a balled fist as the other to harm my daughter and then attempt to have a level headed conversation politely asking him to stop robbing or killing us? I could have ran straight into him which would have seriously injured him. Your right I should have waited to see what he had in store for us and then maybe my corpse could have a lawyer sue his ‘estate’ Shame on you This was just outside of the precinct. He deliberately attacked us and I was able to knock him back before he could swing at us. Your bias against cyclists is showing.
    - Rocket July 17, 2022 (7:23 am)
      
      I did slow down at first. If I had video of what happened you would be apologizing for suggesting I do anything other than what I did. You call him a vulnerable user, to those that were there it appeared very much like he was trying to take advantage of a choke point to attack people coming through on bicycles and did not expect an e assist bakfiets with a skilled bike handler and a low center of gravity. I just hope he didn’t attack the next truly vulnerable user that came along. You explain to me why he wasn’t on the sidewalk. You explain to me what you would have done. So many people are so biased against cyclists for some reason, you have no idea how crazy it is getting out there for us and you Seem to be part of the reason why. I will never let anyone harm my children even if it means I offend you or ‘put vulnerable’ aggressors on their heels or worse.
      
      I respect and follow the law, the laws of common sense and physics most of all. You can have your tort process.
    - Rocket July 17, 2022 (7:59 am)
      
      Going from a stop at Morgan while 300 yards out to 12 mph then seeing he wasn’t stepping out of the lane despite my bell ringing and yelling and slowing to 8 mph at 100 yard, now close enough to see his posture and expression and making a split decision to gun it hard to escape and build protective momentum it took just moments to build back to 13 mph (I have a 330 watt assist on top of my 200 to 350 watt native output). It all played out in seconds. We were trapped and I got my whole family through safely while not injuring him. You side with the psycho stalking the bike path over the family riding bikes home from the baseball game. Your advice and perspective is foolish at best and likely dangerous.

MC July 15, 2022 (8:16 pm)

Buddy was also cycling down there when it happened, said it was a hit and run :(

Duhh July 15, 2022 (9:09 pm)

Putting bikes on the same road with cars without a barrier of some sort was the dumbest idea ever.

Cyclist July 16, 2022 (3:58 am)

Agreed
Kathy July 16, 2022 (10:17 am)

Duh, how do you think people biking get across roads from the separated trail to their destination? But you are right, we should put barriers on either side of crosswalks. That should prevent cars from hitting pedestrians and bikers. I’m half serious. Otherwise there seems to be no way to make drivers slow down and respect people walking and biking.
- Neighbor July 16, 2022 (1:16 pm)
  
  Clearly you don’t ride. The path there loops under the bridge and never shares pavement with traffic.
  - Roms July 16, 2022 (4:53 pm)
    
    Clearly you don’t ride. There are still two dangerous crosswalks to go through after the loop under the bridge.
    - WS Cyclist and Runner July 18, 2022 (8:45 am)
      
      As both a runner and a cyclist who has crossed at those spots hundreds of times, I don’t understand where you and few others are coming from labelling those two spots as dangerous. They’re one-way roads, meaning you only have to scope out a single direction to spot oncoming traffic. The trucks are slowing down to enter the terminal complex, and at least 90% of the time they yield (well in advance of arriving at the crosswalk I might add) to those who are waiting to cross. I just can’t fathom how anyone could get themselves in trouble at those two crosswalks, as even though I ride clipless pedals I’m prepped to put a foot down until I’m sure it’s safe to cross.What IS dangerous is attempting to cross Spokane St. without using the loop underneath the bridge, which I’m also guilty of more often than not. But I’m taking the risks into account by choosing to short-cut it. I usually can assess whether there are any cars in the area before attempting it. I actually do think that in the interest of public safety there should be some measures taken to force us cyclists to take the loop rather than the short-cut. And I’m not saying the loop is perfect. I think it should be widened into a true bike path (right now it more resembles a sidewalk), and I can’t speak to whether the grass or homeless have been mitigated in that area in recent weeks. It seems from another comment that it might be a post-COVID maintenance issue.I hope my commentary here is not seen as inflammatory, as I recognize a tragedy has happened and that’s never “OK.” But as cyclists we do have to exhibit increased responsibility in our own safety. That’s directed towards some of the comments I’ve read here, not toward victim-blaming in this specific tragedy.
  - Kathy July 16, 2022 (10:17 pm)
    
    Neighbor, I’ve been riding that route since 1996.

Rick July 15, 2022 (9:13 pm)

I think a lot of accidents are based on assumptions. Many years on a motorcycle and I always assumed the worst situation. Saved my behind many times. Apply that to driving, walking and just about everything.

Brandon July 16, 2022 (12:29 pm)

The most common sense post in this entire thread.Cheers!

Reed July 15, 2022 (9:14 pm)

For the people always bitching on here about SDOT taking away or reducing car lanes and adding infrastructure to protect cyclists and pedestrians, here is an example of why.

Thomas Wood July 15, 2022 (9:16 pm)

So sad have ridden that route dozens of time.It is dangerous and you have to be on full alert when crossing .

Rl July 15, 2022 (9:26 pm)

Rode by the investigation and body on my way home from work. Very sad to see. I always go on the bike path under the bridge, and avoid the street completely, for this very reason. It takes 20 seconds longer, but is safer.

Eddie July 15, 2022 (9:42 pm)

Absolutely agree. I never crossed the streets there, always take the path under the bridge.So sad.
Roms July 15, 2022 (10:18 pm)

There are still two crosswalks to go through on the East side. The one closest to the bridge is very dangerous since most car drivers speed and do not let pedestrians or cyclists cross (or do not even see them) when these pedestrians and cyclists actually have the right of way (per RCW 46.61.235 and a few other laws). I managed to have SDOT add one additional to signal the crosswalk sign a few months ago, but signs are useless when there is no one to enforce them (thanks to the City Council, including Herbold, who did everything they could to render the SPD ineffective).
- Bike Commuter July 16, 2022 (6:58 am)
  
  The most dangerous part of my ride other than maybe one short stretch without a bike lane downtown, is this intersection. The road closest to the bridge is very dangerous heading west on a bike. You are going away from traffic so have to fully turn your head and look back to check in a very short distance and cars tend to race down that road at high speed. It is poorly marked and no blinky lights or speed bumps. I’ve been meaning to write to the city about it bc it needs to be made safer for all. There has also been an uptick in traffic there as people use it as a way to get around SB99 backups. These are the people who tend to speed anyway and do whatever it takes to get somewhere more quickly and rarely does anyone stop for me at that crosswalk even if multiple cars go past me stopped there. I don’t know if this is where the accident occurred but the city needs to do something there for sure. It is so dangerous.
  - Tony July 16, 2022 (8:44 am)
    
    I’ve been complaining to the city and port about that crossing for years. I’ve had truck drivers (mostly concrete trucks) and cars give me the finger when they clearly fail to yield.
    - Roms July 16, 2022 (5:00 pm)
      
      I’ve written to the City/SDOT, the Port, the port’s union (asking them to educate their comrades), and various other unions that I believe have comrades on the island, about this intersection. I only got an answer from SDOT, with actual results (an additional sign). I don’t expect anything from the unions as they just care about their own privileges, but I had to try. Let’s keep trying.

Dr. MacGeehoo July 15, 2022 (9:28 pm)

I was biking through there just as the first paramedics had arrived on scene and began CPR, and there certainly was no vehicle anywhere nearby that could have been involved. Seemed like a hit-run outcome based on there only being a battered bike laying in the middle of the road. CPR went on for 15 minutes or more and paramedics worked feverishly to save him, to no avail. A very somber scene. Bikers, please be careful and do not take chances crossing that road on the east side of the bridge. I see people doing crazy crosses down there all the time as they try to save commuting time. Simply not worth your life to save a couple of minutes. May this poor man rest in peace. :(

StopCuttingDownTrees July 15, 2022 (10:00 pm)

I hope police find the driver/murderer and he/she is held accountable for this terrible crime.

Eddie July 16, 2022 (6:09 am)

(Full Hardy Boys mode). Shouldn’t be super hard to find. Since it occurred when the bridge was closed to general traffic and wasnt a semi, the vehicle/driver should be on the list of permitted low bridge users. And if not, there should be a photo and a ticket in the mail headed their direction. Not that many tickets/photos to.sift through.Terrible incident.
- Orb July 19, 2022 (9:28 pm)
  
  I sure hope you are right. I hope they catch this rotten human.
- Jim July 28, 2022 (2:33 am)
  
  I doubt if it will be that easy. I know this comment is a week later but if the plates were swapped or removed because the car was stolen that will do very little good

EO July 15, 2022 (10:26 pm)

As a cyclist who fully recognizes the danger of this particular crossing, I’m appalled by the number of comments that appear to be blaming the cyclist, and especially by the comment that showed more concern for the ‘shaken’ driver than the dead man.

Dr. MacGeehoo July 16, 2022 (12:22 am)

Appalled at people blaming the biker? I don’t see the posters above blaming anyone for this tragedy other than the creton who fled the scene. I was there but didn’t SEE it occur and thus I nor anyone else here can assess cause. The point is that a man lost his life and, as you rightly point out, bikers crossing there must take great care because of the danger of that particular arterial. This is an extremely unfortunate reminder of the diligence we all must have when on our bikes. Just a sad day.
- Rocket July 16, 2022 (9:57 am)
  
  Sir you implicitly laid blame on the cyclist above when you said cyclists need to slow down and take several minutes to get through a series of crossings where they have right of way and should be able to safely traverse within seconds. You blamed the cyclist, it was implied but you made no claim of responsibility for the driver.
  
  What about the diligence and responsibility of people operating death sleds around vulnerable users? Shame on you. There is also someone named Jimmy on the board saying they saw the whole thing and have pictures and relaying it appeared to be a deliberate murder.

Dierdre July 15, 2022 (10:56 pm)

This is the worst possible news to see. One of our neighbors died riding their bike. That shouldn’t be happening here. I feel this heavy and unnecessary loss. Please accept condolences for any and all who knew this person.

Scubafrog July 15, 2022 (11:13 pm)

What a tragedy. So many drivers go so fast, and aren’t aware of blind spots. Another hit-and-run driver/killer who’ll go unprosecuted? Maybe it’s time for Critical Mass to come back. My deepest condolences to the victim’s family and friends.

Chris July 23, 2022 (10:13 pm)

Hello, Critical Mass had made a comeback! We’ve been going strong for the past 13 months! There’s about 100 or so of us that show up and ride! Advocating for safe streets for pedestrians and cyclists.

Delridge neighbor July 15, 2022 (11:13 pm)

It’s time we start petitioning the state to allow more traffic cameras to start ticketing reckless speeding drivers. Sad to see another death from stupid drivers.

stereotypesOnly July 16, 2022 (3:23 pm)

Please work on this. Otherwise these are just words. I applaud you in advance and I will sign immediately.

jimmy July 15, 2022 (11:49 pm)

I sadly was a riding the other way exactly when this went down.. I have photos, testimony evidence to prosecute this driver. I ride this route 5-6 day’s two times a day.. so sad for the family of this man just trying to ride his bike. will be on my mind everyday forever now.. catch this driver. white sedan. I was a witness.. this was no accident.. car layed on the horn and accelerated as he passed me going the other direction..

HD July 16, 2022 (1:23 am)

Was it and Audi? Saw one driving aggressively around that time. Praying for the family.
wssz July 16, 2022 (1:47 am)

Jimmy, Your photos and testimony are critically important to catch the guy who did this. You could be the key witness to the horrific killing of this bicyclist. They need you to come forward asap. Per the article —“Detectives with SPD’s Traffic Collision Investigation Squad responded to process the scene and begin their investigation. They are asking anyone with information about this collision to call the Violent Crimes Tip Line at (206) 233-5000.”
flimflam July 16, 2022 (6:04 am)

Jimmy, I’m sorry you had to see that but in a way happy that at least there’s a witness to this. I hope your pictures are of use and the guilty party is located and prosecuted.
Bike commuter July 16, 2022 (6:50 am)

So awful. Take care of yourself Jimmy. This must be quite traumatic to witness and glad you were able to provide good evidence to hopefully catch this maniac.I always whisper under my breath when I have a close call with a car “please don’t kill me”. It is that bad out there at times and this intersection is one of the worst on my ride. But to see something like this is quite sobering and awful. As you said, we are all just trying to get home safely to our loved ones at the end of the day. My heart is broken for this rider and his family. It is a tragedy.
Conrad July 16, 2022 (8:19 am)

I ride this route as a commuter every day and I happened upon it yesterday. I was just sick for the rider. It sounds like with your assistance the driver will be caught and hopefully charged with the vehicular homicide that it was. Hit and run seems to the rule more than the exception. The permissiveness with traffic violence in this city is absolutely unacceptable. And for those of you that haven’t figured it out yet:. Aggression with a 4000 lb car results in loss of life. Aggression with a 30 lb bike results in hurt feelings. I have enough dead friends and neighbors now that it’s becoming harder to care about drivers hurt feelings.
Reed July 16, 2022 (8:48 am)

Jimmy please post any pictures you have of the vehicle on here with any written info you have. Let’s crowdsource finding this POS.
Judi Finney July 18, 2022 (1:47 pm)

Jimmy, bless you for all that you are doing to help with this case and to find the person that did this. I am sorry that you witnessed this horrific act and grateful that you did. Be gentle with yourself as you work through this traumaWould you be willing to speak with the family of the victim?

IPreferAnimals July 16, 2022 (1:40 am)

My heart is so sad for the bicyclist who was senselessly killed by some lowlife garbage with complete lack of humanity, decency and empathy. A total psychopath that used his or her car as a weapon and left the victim to die. I don’t know who the bicyclist was, but I can’t stop thinking about the fact that he was just enjoying a ride on his bike on this beautiful day or on his way home from work…and then he was gone. Sometimes life just doesn’t make sense at all. My heartfelt condolences to this man’s family and friends.

B July 16, 2022 (2:13 am)

According to friends who witnessed it, a 30-weeks pregnant woman was struck by a car near a roundabout on 34th today near High Point. She didn’t die but flew 8-10 feet, and the aggressive driver initially stopped and got out, then fled the scene. Many witnesses, yelling at the car to slow down moments before. The woman hit was supposed to get married Saturday. Young dumb drivers are to blame. I heard of 3 such incidents today. Slow. The. F—. Down.

Kersti Elisabeth Muul July 16, 2022 (4:37 pm)

They got out and stole her cell phone. It was pinging at 32nd and Othello twenty minutes later. Unfortunately the black sedan was gone by then.
Derek July 16, 2022 (5:03 pm)

Old drivers drive bad too. I don’t get the ageism here.
rme July 17, 2022 (6:17 am)

Fellow pregnant person here, horrified by this news. Very difficult to process what she must be going through in the aftermath of this. Pregnancy is so vulnerable. Also just wanted to say that the vast majority of aggressive drivers I encounter are actually not young. Not saying that young drivers aren’t a problem (I hate to remember how I drove when I was 19, before my prefrontal cortex was fully developed), but there are plenty of older people out there filled with rage behind the wheel.

balderdash July 16, 2022 (5:34 am)

That complete zoo of an intersection is a mess, but I don’t see how you could possibly separate cars from bikes there unless you did some sort of bike overpass. It is what it is and wide open for problems.

Neighbor July 16, 2022 (1:24 pm)

The bike path is already separated. It loops under the bridge. Takes like 20 seconds.
- Reed July 17, 2022 (11:29 am)
  
  The key fact that you continue to ignore with this post is that cyclists still have to two incredibly dangerous crosswalks they MUST use to cross on the north side of Spokane Street to continue east on the trail. Those crosswalks are frequently ignored by cars and trucks. Go stand down there during the morning commute and see for yourself.
  - Rachel July 20, 2022 (8:51 am)
    
    Agreed. In my experience, it’s not the port truck drivers who are the worst offenders, either – it’s folks driving cars. I usually try to make eye contact with the truckers and give them a wave before crossing as I don’t know what their visibility is like but car drivers, who I know can see me, often speed up and sail through the crosswalk.

Also John July 16, 2022 (7:20 am)

One witness said it was the first intersection east of the bridge. I rode to downtown for over a decade and always used the bike path going around and under the bridge. I couldn’t tell you how many bikers always cut that intersection….it’s the majority that did. BIKERS….please use the under the bridge bike path for your safety!

Terremoto July 16, 2022 (8:37 am)

Condolences to the family. It is a dangerous confluence at that intersection. I would add impaired drivers as well as aggressive ones are an ongoing danger.

Doug July 16, 2022 (8:46 am)

Stay safe and alert out there! This is very sad news. Cars exceeding the speed limit can get on us bikers in a hurry especially coming off of the lower bridge.

aa July 16, 2022 (8:59 am)

We need to look up from what we are doing and pay attention to the world around us. How often do we see someone crossing the street looking at their phone? I think what could possibly be so important that it can’t wait till you get to the other side of the street? Stop at yellow lights instead of racing through. Is it really so unbearable to wait at a red light? When did being still become so unbearable that we are willing to put lives at risk? We all know it is the disconnect that results from always focusing on technology. We focus our minds on these machines that block everything else out. Creating a sense of separation from the world and people around us. It is going to take a huge shift to change this. And it will only happen as each of us makes the decision to look up and let the world back into our field of vision. One moment, one choice at a time.

Mj July 16, 2022 (9:16 am)

As a bike rider that ride’s this route multiple times a week it is sad that a rider lost their life, RIP.

Insufficient information is noted to ascertain the specific cause. The motorists failure to remain at the scene is frustrating.

With the photo enforcement the vehicle should be easy to locate, presuming the license plate was legit.

I hope the SPD finds the driver and fully determines the fact’s of the terrible incident and the system holds the person responsible fully accountable.

Sadly July 16, 2022 (9:17 am)

Is it possible the lower bridge traffic camera caught a photo of the license plate?

bolo July 16, 2022 (8:05 pm)

Possible sure but probably not going to get results immediately. Last I heard, that whole camera/ID/ticketing process is handled by a third-party vendor in Arizona. Lots of red tape and impediments to get that time-sensitive info.

Monica July 16, 2022 (9:45 am)

This is what I dealt with yesterday. Although the first road rage wasn’t in West Seattle, it shows how vulnerable we are as cyclists with those who attempt to do harm to us. This is what happened:Experienced two road rage incidences today. First one on our bike ride in Black Diamond area. A car was passing us, yelling at us. I didn’t hear what they said, but they yelled at me. Others said he yelled get off the road. Then the car slows down. So Chris and I slowed down as we didn’t want to come up side by side with the car. Then about a half mile later, the car pulls off and parks on the shoulder. He is constantly honking his horn as each of us (14) pass. Eventually, he passes us again and yelling and he seemed to target me both times. He threw something at me and my bike. A small bag of something. The size of a hand warmer. I wonder if he was trying to throw it so it would get lodged into my chain to make me crash. He threw it downward towards my crank. Second road rage incident happened when driving home. On the freeway, a car comes out of no where and nearly side swipes me. I had to swerve towards the shoulder. The guy is now driving taking up both lanes. He is using his middle finger to a car he is dangerously driving next too. And the guy in the other car is also giving him the finger. I slowed down as I didn’t want to drive next to them. This went on for probably at least a minute until the guy moved over in the lane in front of the other guy. I am glad they were taking a left to the 1st Ave bridge while I went straight to West Marginal way. I guess giving the finger was better than a shoot out which we have seen too much of lately. My heart goes out to that rider and his family.

Rooster July 16, 2022 (10:21 am)

Encountered the scene as we were biking to downtown yesterday evening . Saw the man’s body there in the street. So so sad that this happened. I concur with the other bike commuters comments; this is a dangerous spot for bikes and pedestrians. I use the “under bridge” bike path mentioned here, but it would be easy to miss it if you were not familiar with the area. Some of the green bike trail paint might help.

Kathy July 16, 2022 (10:46 am)

Why did SDOT not implement safety features at these crossings on Harbor Island that were requested years ago through the apparently abandoned Your Voice Your Choice program? You can bet after this tragedy those improvements will suddenly appear.

Pessoa July 16, 2022 (10:49 am)

As someone who moved to this area, I don’t think I would be going out on a limb to say that Seattle has the angriest, most bitter, and acrimonious bicyclist/motorist dynamic of any major city. While you’re contemplating the loss of this man’s life, his devastated friends and family, and the unconscionable act of a motorist fleeing the scene instead of rendering aid, think about your own mental state of mind while you are strapping on your helmut, or strapping on your seatbelt.

stereotypesOnly July 16, 2022 (3:19 pm)

I drove in all continents. Drivers in this country are worse than drivers in any developing country I’ve been. On top of lacking skills, they also lack empathy and attention span. As Conrad said, “Aggression with a 4000 lbs car results in loss of life. Aggression with a 30 lbs bike results in hurt feelings.” Way to go to equate the responsibility of a 4000 lbs death engine with cycling humans who need to be protected from death machines. It’s like blaming the human for existing while there is a stampede of aggressive drivers who are rushing to go nowhere.
- Pessoa July 16, 2022 (5:58 pm)
  
  It seems inappropriate to have a back-and-forth considering a man just lost his life, but I think anyone who is being intellectually honest knows the argument I was trying to make – and not trying to make.

Michelle Finet July 16, 2022 (11:39 am)

Rest In Peace cyclist. I hope the driver is caught very soon. Horrible situation. On a separate note and related to one of the posts about sharing the road I’d like to ask a question pertaining to safety. Again, using one of the posts as a way to learn: I usually pass cyclists even if they are going 22 miles an hour, not as a statement of any kind, but because I am nervous about driving my car behind a cyclist for any longer than I have to because of the differential in size of “vehicles”. Is this the wrong approach? I want to eliminate where I can a chance of any contact when I am driving with a cyclist on the road. When I cycle, I prefer cars pass me as well. Of course safely! Appreciate hearing perspectives of those who cycle much more frequently than I do.

Chino July 16, 2022 (2:12 pm)

Passing is great. Please give extra room when passing!
Kevin on Delridge July 16, 2022 (6:20 pm)

Passing is completely fine. I think the important part is to do so safely which might mean waiting for a wider section of road to safely go around the cyclist. Quite often someone will aggressively pass in a narrow section of road with high acceleration which is scary (especially considering most can’t seem to handle their vehicles dying rapid acceleration).

Aggression is the most common experience I have with cars while cycling, so there are times I may interpret a maneuver as aggressive even if it isn’t. I’m sure most drivers have a similar experience with other cars, I know I do.

If you’re able to safely make eye contact or give a friendly wave that can go along way toward making a cyclist feel safe.

Thanks for asking, hopefully others share their experiences as well.
Foop July 16, 2022 (9:19 pm)

We notice when cars slow behind us and wait till a road is wide and clear to pass and we appreciate this so, so much.

Terri July 16, 2022 (1:19 pm)

I was stunned and sickened to see this list of yesterday’s vehicle/pedestrian/bike incidents posted by journalist Ryan Packer on Twitter, including a pedestrian hit in High Point (https://twitter.com/typewriteralley/status/1548137728235098112). As he later noted, only the fatality (RIP) is getting much coverage today.

7:03am: person walking hit by driver on Capitol Hill
8:24am: person biking hit by driver near Expedia
3:25pm: person biking hit by driver on Capitol Hill
3:39pm: person walking hit by driver in SLU
5:06pm: 12 y.o. biking hit by driver in Columbia City
6:54pm: person walking hit by driver on Aurora Ave N
6:55pm: person biking hit by a driver and killed on the West Seattle bridge trail
7:15pm: pregnant person walking hit by driver in High Point
8:18pm: person biking hit by a driver in Ballard
10:51pm: person injured in hit-and-run in Ballard, additional information unavailable

WSB July 16, 2022 (2:14 pm)

I wish we could have gotten to the High Point incident. It was breaking at exactly the same moment as the deadly crash and that had to take precedence. I only have second-and third-hand info but hoping to be able to find out more from police on Monday.
- Kersti Elisabeth Muul July 16, 2022 (4:33 pm)
  
  I was right there. And also twenty minutes later when the cops swarmed 32nd and Othello.They told me the victim’s stolen cell phone had been pinging there. Black Toyota Corolla

alki2 July 16, 2022 (5:09 pm)

I’m not familiar with that interesection. But given the white sedan’s heading, what direction mght a panicky driver go from the point of impact?

bolo July 16, 2022 (7:57 pm)

You probably know that intersection if you’ve ever passed over the low bridge. Crossing from West Seattle into Seattle (eastbound), the accident happened approx. 50-100 yards past the first signal intersection where the bridge reaches sea level again and flattens out. The one where all the buses stop– regardless of the light– at the RR tracks.

Sekai rider July 16, 2022 (6:02 pm)

I agree with WSCommuter comment, the wraparound works great, in fact I think it’s a really good design in keeping bicycles and cars safely away from each other. it’s even landscaped with fragrant shrub roses. I’m very sorry for the victim’s family. No one wants to see another ghost bike, this is so tragic.

Kersti Elisabeth Muul July 16, 2022 (6:15 pm)

Sarah July 16, 2022 (6:54 pm)

Whatever your thoughts on cycling, the tragedy is that a man was struck and died. The driver fled. The problem is that.

sekai rider July 16, 2022 (7:32 pm)

Regarding Michelle’s passing question, please give them room if you’re passing them on the left and there are parked cars on their right, so as to not force them too close to parked cars (dangerous, opening doors..). Thank you for asking.

Chris July 16, 2022 (9:01 pm)

I blame the city for doing these roads and the whole mess with the west Seattle bridge. I was lucky enough to be there when it happened moments after I saw a white 2008 Camry speeding off after a Loud bang. I couldn’t read the plates but car was heading south.

Sad and Tragic July 16, 2022 (10:16 pm)

We need new leaders in our community. Enough!

octopus July 16, 2022 (11:16 pm)

I do have to say that the crossing as you approach the bridge from the east needs improvement, specially during peak traffic hours or when trucks are entering the Terminal. That crossing to enter the terminal needs a better signaling. I commute through there almost daily and there have been many times that cars do not stop and trucks block the crossing. So possibly a flashing automated signal or push button is in order. On another note, I have noticed myself through out the years of comuting through that crossing many cyclists prefer to avoid the wrap around path and many times I have seen cyclist cross when there is a red walk sign and/or trying to beat incoming traffic, in either direction. I hope this was not the case in this accident. As for safety for cyclist in West Seattle, I have to say that after the bridge closure drivers seem to be more on edge and less patient with cyclists, even though the rules and ordinances to help with passing cyclists have been updated (like the rule to be able to officially use the left lane to pass a cyclist) And I hate to say it but Beach Drive is just an accident waiting to happen where a cyclist will be hit by a car. Increased traffic on Beach Drive with many cars parked on the sides at times and the low visibility in the areas with curves makes it quite dangerous for anyone driving or cycling. There are long stretches of road without speed stops or bumps and you can hear cars always speeding up. There are always many cyclists and scooter using this road specially in the summer days when cars leaving Alki tend to use this road in the evening hours.

Ly July 17, 2022 (1:07 am)

So sad for this senseless loss. My deepest condolences to this man’s family and loved ones. Whenever I am driving around in West Seattle I am always so careful to watch for the bicyclist, and I only pass when the road is wide enough to safely do so, at the appropriate speed limit. It’s so sad this man lost his life because some jerk does not know how to regulate his emotions and aggression. I hope he gets caught.

Spoked July 18, 2022 (11:11 am)

As a fellow cyclist, appreciate your comment and efforts when driving.Hate, aggression, anxiety, stress, impatience, and as you said, unregulated emotions… all issues impacting driving and safety on the roads, and just everywhere out in the world.We can help each other better out there, starting with our own feelings and health. Pause and breathe, go more slowly.Healing thoughts for this man’s friends and family. Be careful fellow cyclists, and driver’s.

Audifans July 17, 2022 (7:11 am)

white camry 2008 would look like this

River July 17, 2022 (10:59 am)

This isn’t an infrastructure problem, there are people driving around targeting cyclists in unmarked/unlicenced vehicles. I don’t live in Seattle but was visiting friends and two cyclists were hit from behind by unmarked cars in a 5 days period. One of them was a roadie in a kit, the other was a commuter on a single speed. One of them was seriously injured. Be safe out there.

Eddie July 17, 2022 (5:57 pm)

WSB July 17, 2022 (7:15 pm)

Thanks for sending that photo earlier; I’m posting it separately tonight now that it’s time to catch up with everything post-festival.

Pam July 18, 2022 (1:06 pm)

So sad about this news. Is there any update as to who the cyclist was ? Also, has there been an arrest made regarding the driver?

WSB July 19, 2022 (12:17 am)

Police had nothing new to say, publicly, today. The Medical Examiner did not release the victim’s name.
- Kat July 19, 2022 (1:22 pm)
  
  I was acquainted with the man who died. I will let the SPD release his name. He was a very experienced bicyclist who worked in West Seattle and reverse commuted by bike. He was a very sweet, caring man. My heart and soul are sad. Condolences to his family and coworkers. And yes, I want to hear about it when the catch the driver.

Mirtha July 18, 2022 (5:10 pm)

Are there any updates on the vehicle? I read somewhere (can’t find it now) of a sedan with a bungee cord holding the trunk together. I’ve seen a car like that, white sedan, bungee cord & damage in the front corner. I have been looking like crazy for the description so if anyone finds it, please let me know.

WSB July 18, 2022 (5:12 pm)

Police told me today they have no new information to release.

KD July 19, 2022 (9:32 pm)

I read on Twitter a suggestion someone said that the car must’ve crossed the low bridge and hopefully the license plate recorded (WSB, was it during the on or the off time for peak crossings?) if detective work finds the timing of the crossing and the accident and the identity of the car, they should be able to narrow it down much more. Hopefully photos of the car or it’s plate are being looked into.

WSB July 19, 2022 (10:13 pm)

I’ve been meaning to say this to everyone who has made that suggestion, but had to find the section in state law to be sure I wasn’t “misremembering.” State law forbids use of traffic-enforcement images for anything but the specific violations they are set up to catch. So police cannot use the low-bridge cameras to look for the culprit here.
https://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46.63.170
- zucchini July 20, 2022 (9:44 pm)
  
  There should be a section in the law which states public interest supersedes limited usage.