Barbara Thomas, 63, allegedly hit and killed two cyclists in the intersection of 26th and Westend Ave. Neighbors say, that area is a trouble spot.
Colorado Springs police say Thomas is at fault in the accident, after they say she made a left hand turn from 26th onto Westend and hitting and killing Edgar Juarez, 30 and Jayson Kilroy, 28. Police also believe that Thomas was under the influence of drugs.
Multiple people in the neighborhood tell 11 News that the hill is a very popular ride for cyclists and that they often reach top speeds coming down it. At the same time, they say cars often speed through that turn, not taking the time to look.
However, Lt. Whitlock of the Colorado Springs Police Department says, "There is no evidence to suggest that the cycling group or the deceased cyclist’s were operating their bicycles in a manner that contributed to the crash, and it appears they were lawfully in the roadway and following applicable laws. There was a light rain falling at the time of the crash, but it does not appear to be a contributing factor in the accident."
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.
Police say Thomas was not wearing corrective lenses at the time of the crash, and she is required to do so.