A tragic traffic incident claimed the life of an unnamed male cyclist on East Stassney Lane earlier this month. According to an official statement released by the Austin Police Department, authorities responded to the crash involving a car and a bicycle at 8:32 p.m. on Friday, September 20. Despite being transported to the hospital, the bicyclist later died from his injuries on October 10. The driver at the wheel, 26-year-old Abel Martinez, was arrested under the suspicion of driving while intoxicated.
While the victim remains unidentified, the suspect in the incident does not. After striking the bicyclist, Martinez was taken into custody and is now facing charges related to the incident. Tragically marking Austin's 69th fatal crash this year, this event has contributed to the climbing number of fatalities that now totals 74. By this time last year, there had been 70 crashes resulting in 73 fatalities. Austin Police Department's initial assessment of the fatal crash notes that the ongoing investigation may lead to further findings or changes in the fatality information.
Law enforcement officials urge the public to come forward with any information that could assist in the investigation of this fatal crash. Tips can be provided to the APD's Vehicular Homicide unit by calling 512-974-8111. To provide information anonymously, individuals may contact the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting their website or by calling 512-472-8477.
