North Tonawanda, N.Y. (WBEN) - Within about a one week timeframe, two hit-and-run incidents involving bikes have occurred in Western New York, one in North Tonawanda and one in Niagara Falls with investigations on both incidents currently ensuing.
North Tonawanda Police are looking for a driver after a bicyclist was seriously injured in a hit-and-run early Saturday morning.
A man was hit by a vehicle around 1:15 a.m. ET, at the intersection of Main Street and Tremont Street in the City of North Tonawanda.
"We believe it to be a blue Kia, and that's about all the information we have right now on the vehicle," North Tonawanda Police Chief Keith Glass told WBEN in a brief interview on Monday.
"If you happen to see, a blue Kia with front end damage, you can call our number direct: 716-692-4111."
The victim is currently recovering from his injuries at ECMC.
Chief Glass notes North Tonawanda generally has never had a problem with motorists not being able to share the roadways with bicyclists, as he was unable to recall any type of similar hit-and-run accident ensuing this year in his city.
"Most of the bicyclists respect the rules of the road, and we don't often see something like this happen."
However, a similar accident happened last week in the City of Niagara Falls, resulting in a fatality of the bike rider.
Yolanda Yvette Carr was killed in a hit-and-run at approximately at about 1:15 a.m. Monday at 22nd Street and Niagara Avenue, while riding an e-bike on her way home. Like North Tonawanda, an investigation continues in Niagara Falls.
Falls Police Crash Management Unit (CMU) investigators are asking anyone with information regarding the crash to contact them through the Falls Police Traffic Division at 716-286-4563 or by sending information via email to NFPD.trafficdivision@gmail.com.
On Saturday, a bike rally was held in her honor, attended by advocates of GoBike Buffalo, city officials and residents of the community, who called for safer bike plans in the city, such as having more well-lit streets in the night.
If you see a hit-and-run, Police Chief Glass advises to bystanders get a description of the vehicle or parties as best as you can and quickly dial 911.
We reached out the Public Information Officer of the City of Niagara Falls to reach the Niagara Falls Police Chief, but have not yet heard back.
Stay tuned for updates.
