Injured Hwy 49 Bike Rider Identified

Sonora, CA — Sonora Police have identified 50 year old Christian Damek of Sonora as the victim of a vehicle-bicycle collision on Hwy 49 just north of Pesce Way at 12:25pm this afternoon.

According to Chief Mark Stinson 70 year old Keith Laird of Arizona was southbound on Hwy 49 and in the process of passing Damek when he allowed his vehicle and trailer to drift to the right striking Damek.

The force of the collision ejected Demek from his bicycle and onto the pavement. He sustained minor head and facial injuries along with abrasions to his hands and arms. He was transported to Sonora Regional Medical Center for treatment.

Laird told investigators that he did not strike Damek, but several witnesses confirmed that it was probably the trailer that actually struck Damek.

Alcohol was not a contributing factor and at worst Laird will only receive a traffic citation. He is not being held by authorities.

Written by bill.johnson@mlode.com