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Driver Arrested In Deadly Bicycle Wreck; Victims Identified Save Email Print
Posted: 7:39 PM Aug 6, 2008
 Last Updated: 6:33 PM Aug 7, 2008
 Reporter: McKenzie Martin
Email Address: mmartin@kktv.com
70 comments Map
A | A | A

Colorado Springs police tell 11 News Barbara Thomas, 63, has been arrested for fatally hitting two cyclists with her truck Wednesday night on the west side of Colorado Springs.

It happened around 7:30 p.m. at the intersection of 26th Street and Westend Avenue.

Police say a group of about five cyclists were riding north on 26th Street when a truck heading southbound made a left hand turn and hit two riders.

The riders, 30-year-old Edgar Juarez, 30 and Jayson Kilroy, 28, both of Colorado Springs were pronounced dead on scene. Friends tell 11 News the men were avid bikers and worked together at Colorado Cyclists.

Thomas has been charged with Vehicles Turning Left (Illegal left turn), Vehicular Homicide, and Driving Under the Influence of Drugs. The suspected drugs are prescription medications.

Thomas was also charged with Driving with a Restricted License. Thomas was not wearing her required corrective lenses at the time of the crash.
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Posted by: Gene Location: Arizona on Aug 23, 2008 at 03:56 PM
I knew Jason Kilroy, he was a friend of mine from BME. We are both originally from Michigan and thats where I knew him. He always had a wild side, but was good people. Jayson loved life and was always active. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. My condolences to his family. I'll miss you my friend. Gene (Incoggeno on BME)
Posted by: TC Location: C/S on Aug 11, 2008 at 04:23 PM
Anonymoous have you removed your foot out of your mouth yet?
Posted by: s on Aug 11, 2008 at 03:54 PM
it's really sad that people are saying such hateful things. one of these riders left behind a newborn baby and his mother. this is a senseless accident that could have been avoided if the driver was cautious.
Posted by: DL Location: Colorado Springs on Aug 11, 2008 at 03:39 PM
I am a Colorado native and I am NOT a cyclist. When I was learning to drive, cyclists proved to be an obstacle I learned to work with, just as pedestrians, motorcycles, etc. Getting aggressive and angry at cyclists, especially while they are mourning the death of 2 of their friends is NOT the answer: LEARNING TO DRIVE BETTER is. With gas prices soaring, I have thought about finding alternate transportation, as many probably are - cycling seems a positive answer to 2 of the problems plaguing our society: gas prices and obesity. Cyclists are HUMAN BEINGS not an unnamed enemy stalking our streets waiting to make our drive time difficult. These men were people with jobs, paying taxes for our roads, trying to live a positive healthy lifestyle with minimal impact on the environment. Now 2 of our community members and tax payers are dead and all we can do as a community is fight about how they steal our roads. The most important lessons we learn in life are from in Preschool- SHARE & BE NICE
Posted by: littlewaywelt on Aug 11, 2008 at 06:36 AM
TJ, No, we don't own the roads, but we have EQUAL privilege to use them. You don't have any right to get somewhere expeditiously. Your obligation is to pass only when it's safe for them and you. In many instances cyclists can use the whole lane, whether it impedes your speed or not.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: CS on Aug 10, 2008 at 03:00 PM
Wow, I can't believe what I read! What is this world coming to! These 2 men have lost there life as a result of an irresponsibility driver, Since when can you make a left hand turn into traffic, whether it be infront of a car or a cyclist, IT IS WRONG!!!! OF those of you complaining about cyclist, have any of you ever ridden a bike! I think we all need to take a moment to think about what we learn about humanity! No wonder the world is so screwed up.
Posted by: TJ Location: CS on Aug 10, 2008 at 11:25 AM
I will start laying on my horn honking at cyclist when they are blocking my path on the roadway, cut me off or pull out in front of me. I'll be sure to let them know I am there, which in turn prevents them pretending that I am not there and they will have to acknowledge they do not own the roads.
Posted by: Daniel Location: CoS on Aug 9, 2008 at 06:35 PM
By the way, for those of you who keep talking about paying taxes, insurance and the other stuff...most cyclists DO drive cars as well, so we DO pay taxes...or did you not think of this? We pay taxes same as you, for things like your children to have a public school even though some of us don't even have kids. So your point is completely invalid. As far as a license, I might agree on this point that if you are a road cyclist and spend the majority of the time on actual public roads, then you should be licensed and are familiar with all traffic laws and proper hand signals. Of course, I don't think you would be satisfied with this, it's just something for you to fuss about on your rant about all the healthy, non-polluting cyclists who hold up your Nissan Armada as you head on over to Starbucks.
Posted by: Daniel Location: CoS on Aug 9, 2008 at 06:30 PM
Dale, It's absolutely not called "obstruction of traffic". Did you know on a normal street, the speed limit is just that...a speed LIMIT. Bicycles are prohibited on the interstate, where there is a minimum 45 mph speed. Once again, the ROAD IS NOT YOURS because you drive a car. You still don't seem to understand that it's not your right but a privilege, one that some of you obviously should not be allowed to exercise.
Posted by: kind.hearted Location: love the springs on Aug 9, 2008 at 06:03 PM
So incredible that some can have such disregard for 2 human lives. A drugged, drunken old lady that should have never been behind the steering wheel of a moving vehicle has taken 2 lives. How can you stomach this argument of bikes vs vehicle? Some of these comments make me want to vomit. 2 precious lives are gone. To even think of the pain their close friends and family feel. My heart goes out to those grieving this loss.
Posted by: Blaine Magee Location: 80918 on Aug 9, 2008 at 04:31 PM
I only knew Jayson and only for two hours, but he was the nicest person I have ever met. Most of you should be ashamed of yourselves. Comments should be to convey your condolensces or tell stories of these two great men, not to place blame or argue the facts. Two outstandingly good men were struck down doing what they loved and I would like to give my condolensces to their familys and friends. I am so sorry for your loss.
Posted by: Annonymous Location: Colorado on Aug 9, 2008 at 11:59 AM
To Native: Karma is for the people that are trying to blame one side or the other, not in regards to any of the lives that were taken. And no, Im not the mother although she is a wonderful person as well as the cyclists were (don't know the motorist). No need to get so defensive. Jayson's son will never know his father, which is just so unfortunate. No harmful words from here...Its funny to see how people react to certain things. Get over yourselves. These were two young men that were taken from this world way too early.
Posted by: Westsider Location: Colo Spgs on Aug 9, 2008 at 09:37 AM
Such nasty comments....I just have a question. I live three blocks from that intersection and drive through there almost every day. Driving south on 26th Street, I make that left turn onto Westend all of the time. There is nothing illegal about it. It is an authorized left turn from 26th St. So why was this considered an illegal left turn made by the truck driver? Did she not have her left turn signal on? What caused this to be an illegal left turn for her? Don't get me wrong, as I'm not sticking up for her. I just want to know why it was considered an illegal left turn..
Posted by: Anon Location: CS on Aug 9, 2008 at 07:43 AM
Anonymous - What a fool! Brendan the majority of cyclist are not at any time hugging the curb. I hope licences will be required for cyclist. They will then be forced to follow the rules of the road and be held accountable if they don't. That will be the solution to this on going problem.
Posted by: Native Location: CS on Aug 8, 2008 at 07:51 PM
Anonymous talk about Karma. Will it catch up to you as you act like you care as you are calling one of these victims a dead beat dad that may have one day taken responsibility for his child. And to think these people are talking junk about those that did not even know him. What is up with that? Are you baby mommy? Wow don't need enemies when you have so called friends.
Posted by: Brendan Gavin Location: Bristol, CT on Aug 8, 2008 at 07:09 PM
The whole event and idea that these two are gone is just terrible. I can't even begin to fathom how close friends and family are beginning to feel. Dale (and any other ill-informed driver), as a driver you're supposed to be courteous and aware of your surroundings as a "responsible" driver. Responsible cyclists hug the curb and make do with what the law gives them. (They Have To Ride In the Road) According to the law and what is expected of a responsible driver, cyclists are not obstructions and something you're expected to deal with upon receiving your license. Jayson, EJ, Rest In Peace.
Posted by: k Location: the real world on Aug 8, 2008 at 06:22 PM
Dale:clearly she was arrested for good reason and if you had paid any attention to the facts you would know she was making an illegal left turn when she killed these two young men.
Posted by: Westsider Location: CS on Aug 8, 2008 at 04:18 PM
I am saddened by the comments made in reference to motorist and their lack of concern and compassion for cyclist. It's seems as though all of the responsibility is solely being placed on motorist and zero accountability for cyclist. If you pretend that cyclist are always blameless then they have no reason to change. To the person that said they have been flipped off, I agree that happens. Cyclist also know bad words and scream really loud. I am not speaking of these two individuals but other cyclist. I think anger is generated due to the fact that everyone that has driven a car near a group of cyclist have encountered these exact hazzards. A lot of cyclist truly are thoughtless and arrogant. A lot display bike rage. Unless all people driving or riding on the road apply the same set of rules we are going to continue to have these problems, the injury's and deaths. It's all of our responsibility.
Posted by: Dale Location: Fountain on Aug 8, 2008 at 01:19 PM
This is terrible. I'm sorry for the deaths of the 2 riders. However, I do beleive that bicycles should not be on the streets, unless there is a designated lane designed for that purpose. I know in Colorado Springs, one is suppose to treat bicyclist as vehicles, but if that's the case, then so should the law enforcement. People can't get to their destinations on a timely matter when a cyclist is doing 20 mph and blocking traffic. That's called ubstruction of traffic. What I'd like to know is, who had the right-of-way?
Posted by: brandon Location: a friend on Aug 8, 2008 at 12:36 PM
My heart was saddened today when I learned of the deaths of my two friends EJ and Jayson. I have had the privelage of knowing them for quite some time while working at Colorado Cyclist. I was a coworker of these two wonderful indivduals and must say that some of these comments are in fact being read by friends and family. I am going to refrain from blaming anyone in this, however will ask that some of the comments be kept to yourself. Please show the victims and their families the respect that you would want your family to be shown, in such an event.
Posted by: donna Location: GOG/Mark Dabling Blvd on Aug 8, 2008 at 11:33 AM
I drive on Mark Dabling Blvd. often from Fillmore and north of GOG. There are a lot of bike riders on that road and they usually ride in the car lane where they can't be passed. I passed one by the ball field and he flipped me off. It's getting just as bad here as it is in Fort Collins. My heart goes out to the families and friends of these two young men and I'm sure it wasn't there fault they were hit...I was just generalizing about the ones I've seen taking up the roads. They need to be ticketed when they go through the red light at GOG and Mark Dabling as well as for the other things they do to break the law. Do they have the same rights as people driving cars? They get in the left turn lane to make a turn. Shouldn't they be using the cross-walk like pedestrians?
Posted by: Jay Location: co sprgs on Aug 8, 2008 at 10:24 AM
James, You just misspelled the name of your supposed step son. Jayson ?
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Colorado on Aug 8, 2008 at 10:12 AM
It is so sad for something to happen like this for ALL parties. No one should place blame until they know the full story and even then, they shouldn't really have any say as to who was to blame unless they were actually there. It is too bad because one of the cyclists that was killed was a new father (his son was 3 wks old yesterday)and his son will never know his dad. Although Jason failed to take responsibility for his new son, one day down the road he might have. This is an unfortunate accident, and my heart goes out to EVERYONE involved, including the motorist. Karma will catch up to you.
Posted by: Cyclist Location: Briargate on Aug 8, 2008 at 09:33 AM
There have been numerous incidents in the state this year where cyclists were riding on shoulders, in bike lanes and in roads - all legally - and paid for it with their lives. Cyclists and motorists need to follow the rules of the road and both groups have their share of infractions. Unfortunately, cyclists often pay with their lives for other people's mistakes. As a community, we need to support the healthy and environmentally sound practice of riding bikes with better bike lanes, more driver training and increased patience. I use my bike to ride recreationally and to commute to work several times a week. I diligently try to avoid problems and problem streets but all streets in town are there for vehicles - including bicycles. I have had several close calls with vehicles who either didn't notice me in my flaming colored jersey, didn't care that I was there or didn't have any idea that I can often be riding as fast as a car on many streets. Be safe!
Posted by: Angie Location: C/S on Aug 8, 2008 at 09:23 AM
The state law also says that there should be a headlight visible for 500 feet, don't think I've seen this lately. Also states "Always follow basic safety rules:...Walk bike across busy intersections." I don't mind sharing the road, but when traffic is flowing above 40 mph I think there should be specific bike lanes or no bikes period. I like the idea of bike licensing, and insurance. That might take care of some of the arrogance some bike riders seem to have. I also have a restricted license for corrective lenses, do I always wear them when driving, no, I can see just can't read small signs. I am sure that most of us drivers have driven on medication that warned of driving impairment to include most over the counter meds. No, I'm not blaming the rider and I'm not on the side of the driver, just put someone elses shoes on for a moment. It's also not illegal to ride on the sidewalks, had to look that up.
Posted by: JAMES Location: MICHIGAN on Aug 8, 2008 at 08:17 AM
JASON WAS MY STEP SON I RASIED HIM I FEEL VERY SORRY FOR HIS MOTHER AND FAMLILEY AND FRIENDS THERE I AM STILL IN SHOCK JIM
Posted by: Rider Location: CS on Aug 8, 2008 at 07:02 AM
Mattthew well said. I agree they should pay road tax, insurance and have to take and pass a test before riding in traffic.
Posted by: B. Location: Westside on Aug 8, 2008 at 06:19 AM
Isnt it illegal to ride on the sidewalk, bikes are forced to be on the rode, deal with it, none of us who use the streets have a choice, if we all had better attitudes and were a little more selfless then maybe less people will have to die, what makes people so angry that a small inconvienence like watching out for others is a hazard, how can there even be excuses for these issues, slow down remember there is still all the school zones to run. Do we all have to be such animals, time to evolve people...(i am not a bike rider but am a human being like everybody else)
Posted by: jayson Location: cs on Aug 8, 2008 at 12:36 AM
I hope next time you come across a cyclist you think twice before trying to shoot the gap or getting mad because they might be slowing you down a minute or two before getting to your destination. This is a person, a son or daughter, they might be yours. They are out doing something they enjoy, the wind against their face, enjoying Colorado. Be patient, they are like you and me and have families and friends that will miss them. Share the road that we all deserve to be on. Don’t get angry, think how great it must be if you were out there, having fun, riding a bike and how wonderful it is to be alive in this beautiful world. Take a deep breath, imagine being in a place that you have no worries and nothing else matters. Jayson and EJ were at that place while riding their bikes, we all should strive for that place of enlightenment. God bless us all.
Posted by: Matthew Location: Canon City on Aug 7, 2008 at 09:33 PM
Although I deeply regret any needless loss of life as was the case of the 2 cyclists killed recently, I wonder if current laws and regulations perhaps contributed to all cyclists being in harms way. Cyclists do not have an adequate space in which to ride and not riding in designated bicycle lanes is asking for trouble. I remember as a child having to pay for bicycle licensing. Do cyclists do that now? Are they required to pay insurance to help mitigate costs should they be injured? As a motorist I am afraid when I approach or pass cyclists...will they swerve in front of me? If they do, do I face a head on collision with another vehicle or do I hit the cyclist? I have personally driven fire trucks en route to an emergency with red lights and siren and have had to yield to cyclists. Is that right? I think cyclists should pay licensing fees and road taxes just like the rest of us and be wise enough to know that motorists just don't see them as they do not see motorcyclists.
Posted by: jennifer Location: oh on Aug 7, 2008 at 09:29 PM
This is terrible. My heart goes out to the friends and families of these two men. Some of these comments are absolutely unnesessary. I didn't know either of them personally, but I know that from the ways others have spoke of them, that they will be missed very much. It's just really too bad.
Posted by: Jennifer Location: Colorado Springs on Aug 7, 2008 at 09:25 PM
I am so saddened by this incident..and now saddened more by what I'm reading here. This is not a bike versus car issue, people. Barbara Thomas failed to yield on a left turn and mowed people down. I used to live over there, too, and never had an issue with cyclists...as I never do anywhere because I use my mirrors and my manners. As always, I hope all of you with the rude, defensive comments feel better about yourselves.
Posted by: chris Location: ivywild on Aug 7, 2008 at 08:16 PM
just a shame to all familys involved i quit driving becouse of the gas prices ive taken up bycycleing and folks just need to PAY ATTENTION!when traveling NEAR AND AROUND BICYCLES! this ol, lady is probably going to spend the rest of her life behind bars.shes on script meds and any one who has glasses,contacts or any imparment will have a RESTRICTED LIcense, this issue needs to be addresed at or to the city counsel.we all are to blame with attitudes like elmo.we jus need to learn to play nice and share the road.
Posted by: Living In Reality Location: Central Colo Springs on Aug 7, 2008 at 06:08 PM
Perhaps Elmo and others with similar opinions need to remember these young men were just two people riding bicycles with operative word being "people".
Posted by: Debbie Location: C/S on Aug 7, 2008 at 06:04 PM
As a former bicycle rider/driver (knees say no more), the rules of the road concerning bicycles include 1)Same laws apply to bikes as cars-stop signs & signal lights included 2)same direction-NOT against traffic flow 3)SINGLE FILE except in very large groups 4)lights are MANDITORY as well as light reflecting gear after dark. How many rules/laws have bicyclists been seen breaking on a regular basis? Yes, sympathy for the deaths and those left behind. The woman wasn't wearing her glasses and was on prescriptions. Might there be some shared blame on the part of the bike riders and the driver as dusk starts now at about 7pm? The incident occurred 7:30-7:45pm.
Posted by: compassion Location: COS on Aug 7, 2008 at 05:02 PM
Wow....That was so touching! It is so very evident how much you mean it.....
Posted by: Westsider Location: CS on Aug 7, 2008 at 04:57 PM
Daniel, you are right the vehicle weighs several thousands pounds while the bike may weigh 20 lbs. The part of being forced by a cyclist was when they ran through a stop sign on a side street and to keep from hitting them I was forced to go into on coming traffic because I knew my three thousand pound vehicle might have hurt them. The sadness was they didn't even bat an eye as the continued to drive like I had inconvenienced them. If you find that to be funny I guess our idea of humor has a different meaning. But you see if did not risk getting hurt by the on coming traffic I would be sitting in this lady's boat. Daniel keep laughing as you sit here and say people are impatient, don't pass properly, and are ignorant. That day I would have agreed with you because those are almost the exact words I used as I faced an oncoming car that I thought was going to hit me head on because I was afraid I would have hurt someone. So when you think people are ignorant you are right they are!
Posted by: Kay Location: CO SPgs on Aug 7, 2008 at 04:37 PM
Can't you guys read ? 'The suspected drugs are prescription medications.' Maybe the doctor has her on the wrong doseage for all we know. She is a 64 year old lady and all the people involved have families effected. As for the rude comments, if people didn't have such nasty attitudes and everyone wasn't so disrespectful on the street all motorists might be able to travel without all the daily accidents around here. By the grace of God it wasn't your mom or brother this time........THIS TIME.......be careful what you laugh at....he who laughs first....
Posted by: ELMO Location: co springs on Aug 7, 2008 at 04:13 PM
OK,,,,,,,,,I'AM SORRY!! HOWEVER I STILL DON'T LIKE CYCLIST!! to the friends and family I'AM SORRY,,,,,,
Posted by: sorry for your lss Location: cs on Aug 7, 2008 at 03:51 PM
elmo you are such a horrible person. Those two guys were great guys. For you to say that is wrong. You should have been the one who was hit.
Posted by: Daniel Location: Chattanooga on Aug 7, 2008 at 03:27 PM
My condolences to the families & friends of the cyclists. My sister lives in CoS and was friends with them. Unfortunately, just from the comments on this board you can see just how ignorant a large majority of Americans are who are given a license to drive. Westrider...the thought you being "forced" into oncoming traffic by cyclists is laughable. You're driving a car that weighs several thousand pounds, they are on 20 lb. bicycles. If you were "forced" anywhere it's because you're too impatient to pass properly. And I don't even need to address comments by people like Elmo, I'm sure he'll get his someday. Once again, driving is a PRIVILEGE, not your right...same as cycling on the road. I gave up whitewater paddling because it was somewhat dangerous and took up road biking...now I understand that being on the road with some of the folks in our society is the most dangerous thing I could do. By the way "Nick", you say "no motor no road"? I say "no brains, no comment".
Posted by: KKTV.com Web Producer on Aug 7, 2008 at 02:25 PM
Message from the editor: KKTV has a policy not to edit or reject comments unless they use vulgar language or threaten a life. However, please use some discretion in your posts, as lives were lost in this case.
Posted by: A cyclist Location: COS on Aug 7, 2008 at 02:10 PM
I can not believe the attitude of some people in this city. Bicycles are "Human" powered, living people and when you make remarks like some here you really should consider getting some mental help. If cyclist are such an inconvenience for you maybe you should stay home and control your anger problems instead. Then maybe we'll have one less incident like this one. And "BOB" your more of a hazard than any person on a bike, why? Because your behind the wheel of an automobile, a lethal weapon that you seem to have considered using, get some help bud! Bikes are transportation, just as cars are, and more people are force to use this mode of transportation, just share the road and consider the human life that is powering that vehicle.
Posted by: Steve Location: Colorado Springs on Aug 7, 2008 at 01:21 PM
Tee level of ignorance I have read in many comments is deeply disturbing. First -- the cyclists who were killed/murdered were obeying the law on ALL counts. They were riding below the speed limit and were on the appropriate side of the road. The woman drove directly into them across their lane. Now, two bright, kind, and friendly young men in their early 20s are dead for no reason and some on this board have the lack of compassion to say that cyclists shouldn't be on the roads. The roads exists for ALL vehicles and that is the law. These comments are deeply disturbing and indicate the rage that so many motorists feel towards cyclists in our "Bicycle Friendly City"... very sad indeed. I wonder if Colorado Springs will ever be a hospitable place for cyclists. We have so much work to do... cyclists and motorists alike. I mourn the loss these friends...
Posted by: a realist Location: springs on Aug 7, 2008 at 01:01 PM
poor lady...she probably had a restricted license for dusk because of eye sight and her drugs are probably prescribed. the reporter makes her sound like she has multiple violations and is a meth adict! shes 64! i feel sorry for the bike riders but accidents happen-if it happened to my family i would be sick about it-i feel for all involved-accidents suck.
Posted by: Don Location: Cycling in CoSprings on Aug 7, 2008 at 12:57 PM
Wow.. Bob and Elmo. Just Wow. Do you really believe what you said ? If so, please seek counseling. Seroiusly. If you can't get around a group of cyclists without "plowing" them, then maybe you should reconsider your driving skills. What if it was Mom pulling the kids in a trailer... sure go ahead an plow them too. They might slow you down 3 seconds while you try to get around them. Cyclists ar traffic like slow moving tractors you have to go around, the mailman you have to go around, city busses you have to go around etc etc. If the cyclists were speeding excessively down the hill, I guess they assumed the risk of their actions. This will likely be looked at in the investigation. It's a sad affair any way you look at it. People like Bob and Elmo shouldn't be driving..Steaming road ragers that care only about themselves.
Posted by: Concerned Location: CS on Aug 7, 2008 at 12:42 PM
People say she was on drugs. Were they prescription or street? Why is her license restricted? I believe people want her to be held accountable, but I also believe the focus is on the cyclist because so many people have had to cater to them to avoid hitting or running them over. I know I thought that could have been me that hit them minus the drugs and license issue. That goes to show how many people have been affected by cyclists. My thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones. I hope something positive is learned from this.
Posted by: Note to elmo Location: Denver on Aug 7, 2008 at 12:21 PM
While it is true that not all cyclists or drivers obey the rules of the road, there is little question of who was at fault here. Barbara Thomas was charged with multiple felonies, you idiot. Until the law changes to remove bicycles from our roadways elmo, you really must learn to get along with others. Heck, why not even take up cycling. You might even lose a little of that 49 inch beer belly you sport around. By the way, who do you get to blow into your ignition interlock when you are too drunk to start your own car? I don't like you. Please let me know when you will be driving. I will certainly avoid angry people like you. You are the idiot. The riders that were killed last night were exercising their lawful privilege to use the same roads that Barbara Thomas was using in violation of State law. It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence, you idiot! You may not know that because you do it all the time. Next time you get caught you will end up behind bars. Questions??
Posted by: Jennie Location: Corpus Christi, TX on Aug 7, 2008 at 11:58 AM
I used to live not far from this intersection and my ex-husband was a rode his bike all the time. He would always tell me that 26th street hill was a very dangerous place for both biker and car driver. He would avoid this street simply because he said it was not worth his life to bike that fast down such a main street of town. That truck could have been a number of people, I have been at that intersection so many times and freaked out because these bikers come out of no where and I have almost hit them. I also have never had a drink of alcohol in my life. I feel sorry for all parties involved and I hope that the families can find it in their hearts to forgive this lady. Accidents happen and no matter how safe we try and make the roads accidents will continue to happen. Be safe
Posted by: A Location: Cos on Aug 7, 2008 at 11:43 AM
So...what exactly are the rules of the road?
Posted by: Laurie Location: Colorado on Aug 7, 2008 at 11:39 AM
So it's okay to hit people on bikes or just walking because they don't have motors? What a twisted society this is!!!! No wonder the world is going to the toilet.
Posted by: Rhonda Location: Monument on Aug 7, 2008 at 11:36 AM
I feel so bad for the loss of those people and their families. I will have to agree with the hazard they cause on our roads. I would really like to know what we as a state paid for all those bike trails. I have had for years a lot of problems on 30th street by the GOG.
Posted by: Courtney Location: Fort Carson on Aug 7, 2008 at 11:32 AM
I dont know that area, but I do know many who ride bikes, it's horrible and tragic that this happened, because people cant pay attention...people need to learn to share the road, and not always be in such a hurry to get places. I really hope these families are handling the deaths as best as possible
Posted by: Ron Location: Colorado Springs on Aug 7, 2008 at 11:05 AM
Since that part of 26th street appears to be a problem area with cyclist speeding down the hill, shouldn't the city post it with "no bikes" and divert cyclists to less hilly streets?
Posted by: Westsider Location: CS on Aug 7, 2008 at 10:26 AM
Bill,9:23a.m.- Consider it to be incompassionate but I have almost hit them on more than one occassion. It's not that I am in a hurry or a matter of stopping to let them by it's a matter of being able to get out of their way to avoid being hurt. Also not to mention their speed and as someone said being extremely arrogant. I don't feel like I should have to feel tension when they are on the road because will not follow the rules of the road. I have thought about calling the U.S. Olympic Training Center to see if they train from there and asking if this behavior is considered exceptable for the team as a whole or perhaps just a few. People may not like it but drivers should not have to go through what they do to avoid an incident/accident with cyclist. Hopefully this will be a wake up call. Would we except this constant behavior if it were a group of wreckless teenagers? Probably not, so why is it okay for adults?
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 7, 2008 at 10:20 AM
You should reconsider you policy of posting remarks like the one from elmo. Did you review it before you posted it?
Posted by: bill Location: colorado springs on Aug 7, 2008 at 10:07 AM
This is for "Upset"...This lady was on drugs & a restricted license...Would you feel the same way if that phone call from the Police telling you of the death of your son,daughter,husband or wife came to you?...Would you forgive & hug their killer?...Would you sleep well that night?
Posted by: compassion Location: COS on Aug 7, 2008 at 10:05 AM
Have a little heart! These people are humans and have families that are dealing with a tragic loss. I agree that it is hard to drive with cyclists at times but even harder if people are allegedly driving under the influence.
Posted by: native Location: colorado on Aug 7, 2008 at 09:52 AM
bycycle riders need to learn the rules of the road just like a person in a car or leave the road or get ticketed
Posted by: Bob Location: COS on Aug 7, 2008 at 09:52 AM
Right On Elmo!!! It could have been more than two yesterday as I almost plowed over 7 or 8 on Woodmen Road. Those "IDIOTS" had no regards for traffic and were weaving in the lane like they were daring someone to hit them. Bikers.....if you can't do the speed limit then get off the road!!!! You are nothing but a hazzard!!!
Posted by: Nicki Location: CSC on Aug 7, 2008 at 09:04 AM
elmo-you are an idiot and extremely inconsiderate. What is wrong with you? They have just as much right to be on the road as you do! Personally I think they are smart. As much as gas is right now. They are helping the environment, saving money, and getting exercise. If drivers would pay more attention then accidents like this wouldn't happen. My heart goes out to the families and friends of the deceased.
Posted by: Nick on Aug 7, 2008 at 08:57 AM
wow elmo how heartless, yes the cyclist do cause alot of problems when they ride on the road bu no one deserves to DIE!!! well carma will come back to you for saying such a horrible thing. But I do think cyclist should not be allowed on our roads no motor no road.
Posted by: Amckin Location: Colorado Springs on Aug 7, 2008 at 08:36 AM
What a mature comment, elmo. I see you share the same ignorant attitude a lot of drivers in this town have: that only cars belong on the roads. You do realize that driving is a privilege and not a right, correct? Oh, and that cyclists may ride their bikes on roadways unless explicitly prohibited by law, right? Are you keeping up with me? I will say, though, that cyclists do have an obligation to obey the same laws as drivers while riding on the road. While many do, there are some that don't. Frankly, if you don't like sharing the road with cyclists, perhaps you shouldn’t drive. Perhaps you need to sharpen your vehicle handling skills so that maneuvering around a cyclist isn’t such a challenge for you. Of course, those few precious seconds you may lose in doing so is probably a huge inconvenience. Another option you have is to write your Congressman and ask that the law be changed. Judging from your eloquently worded post, however, I doubt the latter is a realistic option for you.
Posted by: Upset Location: Westside on Aug 7, 2008 at 08:36 AM
My thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family. I work on 26th street and I am amazed (and terrified) at how fast bikers come flying down that hill. They have no consideration for cars on the road, they have a very arragont attitue. As far as I'm conserned, if cars need to "share the road" with bikers, then the LEAST the bikers can do is abide by the speedlimit laws. Also, how come nobody knows or cares how devistated the lady was who was involved in the accident?
Posted by: bill Location: colorado springs on Aug 7, 2008 at 08:23 AM
The lack of compassion that is apparent with "elmo" & "westsider" is disgusting...Hopefully tragedy never strikes your families...
Posted by: Bill from Boston Location: El Paso County on Aug 7, 2008 at 07:49 AM
This is another tragic example of drugs and alcohol causing tremendous loss. I understand Westsider's comments BUT elmo, would you pls re-consider what you said..?? Bicyclists have a right to be on the streets and of course obey the rules of the road. They are just like we drivers...do we always obey the law and pay attention to our driving...??? NO! I believe this just accentuates the need to be MORE AWARE and CAREFUL when driving near people on bikes, as we're expected to do with other drivers...you know what I mean?? BUT, to classify bicyclists as "IDIOTS" elmo seems pretty extreme, does it not?? Where is your criticism and outrage of the drunken, drugged driver??? Do you by any chance fall into that category since you seem to support the criminal?? Hope not.
Posted by: Julie Speidel Location: 26th Street on Aug 7, 2008 at 07:40 AM
I feel terrible for everyone involved, but I drive the intersection of Westend and 26th almost everyday. Daily bicyclists fly down the road going well above the posted speed limit; they often pass up cars who are going the speed limit. I always have to double and triple check the road before pulling out because often bicyclists show up out of almost nowhere because they are going so fast downhill. Many times I have thought to myself that I hope that no one gets hurt because the bicyclists are out of control. If bicyclists are on the road, they should abide by the speed limit.
Posted by: Bikerider Location: Denver on Aug 7, 2008 at 04:36 AM
Under the influence??? OK, when is hte public linching?
Posted by: elmo Location: co springs on Aug 7, 2008 at 02:47 AM
well,,,,,,that's 2 more cyclist we don't have to worry about being in our way! get the hell off the streets IDIOTS!
Posted by: Westsider Location: CS on Aug 7, 2008 at 02:04 AM
My heart goes out to the family and friends. I am not surprised these people were hit. I almost hit a group of cyclist a week or so ago while coming home. On more than one occassion I have almost been forced into on coming traffic because they seem to have difficulty sharing the road. I thought while riding in traffic the rules of the road also apply to bikes.
 
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