A bicyclist died after being hit by a car in Fort Myers on Saturday afternoon. The crash occurred along Evans Avenue, prompting authorities to close the road for hours as they worked the scene.
WINK News was on location, speaking with neighbors who knew the victim. They described him as a kind, hardworking individual who was always ready to lend a hand.
“He was a good person. He had a huge heart. He was always willing to help,” said Annette Illes.
Illes said she was on scene moments after the crash and shared that the victim was like family to her. She mentioned that the day of the crash was his 70th birthday.
“He was all excited about his birthday,” said Illes.
The crash happened around 5 p.m. on Evans Avenue near Thompson Street. Officers blocked off the road for hours as they documented the scene.
David Black, a friend who lives nearby, shared his disbelief about the crasht. He said he saw the victim just hours before the tragedy and wished him well on his birthday.
“I just couldn’t believe it. I’d seen him that very morning and we’d had a happy interaction,” said Black.
Black described the victim as the neighborhood handyman, someone who was always working, moving, and ready to help.
“Never looked for a handout. Was handy in a number of things. He was always on his bicycle,” said Black.
Illes reflected on the victim’s resilience and how he will be missed by the community.
“He always just kept on going. Nothing, nothing was going to hold him down,” said Illes.
As of Saturday, police were in the process of notifying the man’s next of kin. No arrests have been made yet in connection with the incident.
WINK News will provide updates as more information becomes available.
