HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — On October 8, 2019, fire and rescue crews responded to a bicyclist who was hit at the intersection of Wall Triana and Boeing Boulevard. When responders got to the scene, bystanders were giving the bicyclist CPR.
The cyclist, Jose Zayas, did not survive the impact.
On November 3, 2021, the driver, David Michael Duggan, was convicted by a jury of manslaughter in the death of Zayas.
Sentencing is set for December 15, 2021. Until that time, he will be subject to electronic monitoring and may not drive a car.
Zayas's family says that they will continue the efforts of their Ride On, Zayas Foundation to emphasize to the public the importance and consequences of not drinking and driving or driving recklessly.
After his death, they cycling group that he was a member of shared their memories of him. The Alabama Wheelman said:
It is with a heavy heart that we release the information about our dear friend and teammate Zayas Jose. He was struck from behind yesterday afternoon on his way back from a ride and did not survive the impact. Zayas was a cyclist in every part of the word, but more than that he was a great man, good friend and loving husband who always brought a smile to your face that matched his! More details will be available soon but for now lift his family up in prayer for peace and acceptance during this tragic time. He will be missed greatly And the cycling community in North Alabama will not be the same without him!
In Memory of our so loved “Zayas”
Dozens of people shared comments, speaking of Zayas as being friendly, kind, vibrant, welcoming, talented, and a respected man in the cycling community.