By Jane Bartnett
A 65-year-old cyclist from Grosse Pointe, Michigan, riding in a designated bike lane on Beach Road, collided with a pickup truck traveling southeast on Beach Road.
According to a press release from the Florida Highway Patrol, the pickup was driven by a 36-year-old Sarasota man who was “attempting to make a right turn into Beach Access 9.” The collision occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. Sunday at Beach Road and Access 9, east of Plaza de las Palmas.
The cyclist sustained critical injuries and was transported to an area hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The driver of the pickup was wearing a seat belt at the time of the incident and was not injured. As of this writing, no charges have been filed against the driver.
The incident has caused concern among cyclists who ride on Siesta Key roads. Cyclist Don Stuart told ABC 7 News that the crash should serve as a reminder for cyclists and drivers alike.
“You know the cars coming up behind us and keep track of the cyclists coming up behind us,” Stuart said. “I don’t want to say it’s an epidemic, but I think there needs to be mutual respect — a lot more caution.”
The Florida Highway Patrol reported that the crash remains under investigation.






