A bicyclist was killed Friday morning in Columbus' Milo-Grogan neighborhood after being struck by two cars just before 8:30 a.m. The collision happened near the corner of Essex and Shoemaker avenues, just off Cleveland Avenue, and the rider was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:41 a.m. One driver stayed behind while a second driver headed south on Cleveland Avenue and kept going. Authorities have not released any identifying details about the bicyclist or either driver.
What police said
Local television coverage relayed early details from investigators, reporting that the crash involved two vehicles and that one driver left while the other remained on scene, according to WSYX. The station also reported that the bicyclist was pronounced dead where the crash occurred and that police have not shared further details about the victim or either motorist.
Where it happened
The crash site sits along a busy stretch of Cleveland Avenue that has already drawn safety concerns from neighbors and city officials. In a separate fatal hit-and-run on Cleveland Avenue, previous coverage highlighted the corridor's safety problems and public calls for tips to investigators.
Legal consequences for leaving the scene
Under Ohio law, a driver who fails to stop after an accident that results in death can face a third-degree felony charge. Section 4549.02 of the Ohio Revised Code lays out drivers' duties after a crash and the penalties for leaving the scene, including the possibility of felony charges when a death occurs, according to the Ohio Revised Code §4549.02.
How to help investigators
The Columbus Division of Police's Accident Investigation Unit is handling the case. Anyone who witnessed the crash or has video is asked to contact investigators. The department's media information pages and press templates list the AIU and the Public Information Office as points of contact and include phone numbers for tips and media inquiries. Those details can be found in the City of Columbus media information.
The investigation is active and no arrests have been announced. Police say they will release more information as it becomes available.
