Central Park biker killed: Man thrown from bike and dies after hitting dog in New York

CENTRAL PARK, Manhattan (WABC) — A 71-year-old man was killed Monday morning after he was thrown from his bicycle after hitting an off-leash dog in Central Park.

It happened shortly before 8:30 a.m. near East 84th Street, inside the park.

The cyclist, who was wearing a helmet at the time, was riding a touring pedal bike and struck the curb. He was injured in the head and body.

First responders transported the victim to New York Presbyterian Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The golden retriever’s owner was on scene and police say the dog was not injured.

Dogs are allowed to be off-leash in Central Park from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., but dogs must be on a short leash while walking in the park at all times.

The fatal incident comes after a 41-year-old pedestrian was struck by a cyclist and killed in the same area of ​​the park last month.

In this case, Richie O’Brien, a father of two, was walking to work when he was struck. He died a few days later.

After the incident, the Central Park Conservancy called for additional safety measures in the park, including a speed limit of 15 mph, stricter traffic enforcement, and better bicycle infrastructure.

On Monday, the conservatory released a statement calling on all New Yorkers to follow park rules:

“We are heartbroken to learn of the fatal incident this morning in Central Park involving a cyclist and an off-leash dog. Our thoughts are with the family, friends and loved ones of the cyclist who lost his life,” the statement said. “Central Park was created more than 150 years ago to provide a peaceful and joyful respite for all from the intense pace and pressures of the surrounding city. The park cannot continue to fulfill this purpose unless all New Yorkers respect the essential agreement of public space: to know and follow the rules and to respect other visitors.

It is not yet known whether anyone could face charges in connection with Monday’s deadly incident.

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