Bicycle vs. Car Accident Leaves Cyclist Dead in Lyons

Driver of Car Cited for Careless Driving, DUI, Vehicular Homicide

Patrick Ward

A Lyons man has been charged with several crimes in the death of a cyclist in Lyons, Colorado in an SUV vs bicycle accident.

Patrick Ward, 69, had apparently made comments at previous town meetings about his disdain for the growing number of cyclists in the community. He was charged with suspicion of vehicular homicide, DUI, careless driving resulting in death, and possession of a prohibited weapon.

Ward was apparently driving the wrong way down Main Street in Lyons when he struck and killed 46-year-old Michel Van Duym. Police have noted that it is possible Ward was making a left hand turn at the time of the accident.

Statements made by Ward at the Lyons Planning and Community Development Commission demonstrated his concern for the cyclists in the community. "These people don't belong in Lyons. They certainly don't belong in the foothills around Lyons."

Prosecutor Bruce Langer offered some insight into the severity of the situation. "This is a very serious charge," he said. "Someone lost their life."

Van Duym was a well respected and friendly businessman in the Lyons area. According to his LinkedIn profile, he was the associate director of business development for GHX, a healthcare supply company based in Louisville. 

If you are injured in a car vs bicycle accident, or are involved in a possible wrongful death case, you need to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. Call The Law Offices of Robert Paysinger, P.C. today for a free initial consultation. We help injured people - it's all we do!

Sources: Driver arrested after bicyclist killed by SUV in Lyons, Driver arrested in cyclist's death had complained bicyclists 'don't belong' in Lyons, Driver held on $25K bond after Boulder cyclist struck, killed by SUV in Lyons