The Times Union reported today that another cyclist has died. Matthew Ratelle was struck down from behind about 8:30 a.m. (broad daylight) on 9/3. According to the report, one can conclude that Ratelle was an “avid cyclist” who had driven to the start of his ride on Rt. 22, was wearing a helmet, was riding on the shoulder, and had a GPS device on his bicycle – all hardly signs of a casual or unprepared rider going on an errand.
According to the Times Union, the killer, Becky Goodermote, was charged with::
- Leaving the scene of a serious personal injury accident
- Operating a vehicle while impaired by drug
- Driving with a suspended registration
- Failure to use due care
The TU report notes further that Goodermote, who was also suspected of texting at the time, left the scene but was caught when her concerned family member told police that Goodermote returned home with extensive damage to her vehicle that she could not explain.
Ratelle, who leaves a wife and three young children, landed about 30 yards from where he was struck and suffered massive trauma.
UPDATE 12-22-12
Funeral and Wake for Matthew Ratelle, Another Cyclists Killed on the Road – Those cyclists who would like to reach out to the family of a fellow bicyclist Matthew Ratelle may visit on Sunday, December 23, 2012 from 4 until 7 p.m. at the Parker Bros. Memorial, 2013 Broadway, Watervliet.
The funeral will be Monday, December 24, 2012, 10 a.m., Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, corner of Eagle St. and Madison Ave., Albany.
Contributions may be made to the Ratelle Family Trust, to benefit his children, in care of the funeral home office.
Visit parkerbrosmemorial.com for directions, to light a candle, and for condolence book.
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Albany Bicycle Coalition 