76-year-old cyclist killed, another seriously injured in Taunton crash
TAUNTON - A driver who allegedly struck and killed a cyclist and seriously injured another in Taunton Thursday afternoon has been cited for motor vehicle homicide, according to the Bristol County District Attorney.
Donald MacManus, 76, of Seekonk, was killed when he and another cyclist were struck on North Walker Street at about 2:25 p.m. The second cyclist, a 72-year-old man from Attleboro, was taken to Rhode Island Hospital for "treatment of significant trauma to his lower extremities."
The cyclists were struck by 2009 Mercedes Benz driven by a 62-year-old man from Mansfield. The driver remained at the scene and did not appear to be intoxicated, investigators said.
The driver, whose name has not been released because he has not been criminally charged, was cited for motor vehicle homicide by negligent operation and will be summonsed to court at a later date. The investigation remains ongoing.
Taunton Mayor Shaunna O'Connell said the crash is believed to be related to a possible medical condition of the driver. "The tragic incident which occurred today is devastating to all of the families involved," Taunton Mayor Shaunna O'Connell said. "We ask that you keep the victims' families in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
Neighbors are very disheartened and frustrated by the crash. "They drive so crazy on this road. It doesn't surprise me," said neighbor Bucky Collins.
Witnesses say the car was coming from the opposite direction and hit the cyclists.
Lilly Brum's 12-year-old son saw the crash and ran inside to tell his mom. He had just gotten home from school. "He said, 'ma somebody got hit by a car on a bicycle,' and I said are you serious?" Brum said. "That's probably what I heard because I heard a bang, and I did hear some yelling."
The force of the crash was so strong the sign warning drivers to respect cyclists was knocked down.
Neighbors say speeding is an issue
"Accidents are accidents, but these people drive nuts," Collins said. "You saw it. They have no concerns. I have kids, it's a tough road to drive on."
But frustrated neighbors say speeding and crash scenes are becoming too common in the neighborhood. They're calling on city leaders to do something before more people are hurt or worse.
"My heart goes out to the family, and we are concerned," said neighbor Janell Akoi. "This is a major road. We have a lot of cars that are coming down here and if anything can be done, we would love to have that happen, it is a busy road."
