AUSTIN, TX - The search continues for the driver responsible for a hit-and-run accident late Saturday night killing an Austin cyclist. Stallings says he has a name for drivers who ignore cyclists. "We call them homicidal and future inmates," he said. Austin bicycle groups are holding a ride of silence May 18 to make sure accidents like Runciman's are never forgotten.
The cyclist was a computer programmer who loved the outdoors and on his website, 24-year-old Andrew Runciman put bicycling at the top of the list. The bachelor moved to Austin last September from his home state of Tennessee.
Witnesses say it was just after 11:30 Saturday night when Runciman and a friend were riding home down South Lamar, but before he could make it home, a dark SUV struck Runciman from behind sending him to the ground.
Runciman was not wearing a helmet. His bike, though, had reflective lights. Runciman died Sunday at Brackenridge Hospital.
"We've very upset about it,"said Robin Stallings with advocacy group Bike Texas. "It's very personal."
Cyclists say Austin's three foot rule, meant to give cyclists safe road space, is often overlooked.
"Cars whizzing by you is just something you learn to deal with," said cyclist Bobby Parker.
Parker was hit by a car about a year ago. He says the driver never saw him, and like the dark SUV that killed Runciman, Parker says the driver who struck him drove off.
Police say whether or not that person does come forward, they will face felony charges for failing to stop and render aid.
