Bicyclist killed in Norfolk ID'd

NORFOLK, Va. - A horrible accident claimed the life of a bicyclist in Norfolk Thursday morning.

The bicyclist has been identified as 46-year-old Michael T. Holmes of Norfolk.

Police spokesperson Chris Amos says Holmes was on a bike was traveling southbound in the 8700 block of Tidewater Drive around 6 a.m. when a Nissan Pickup truck traveling in the same direction hit him.

He was taken to the hospital, where he later died.

Police say Holmes was not wearing a helmet.

"You can ride in the roadway a couple of feet from the curbline with the flow of traffic is what the law says you can do and you must do," said Amos.

Bill Hart with the Virginia Bicycling Federation says this accident was preventable, "There's no reason why he shouldn't have seen him. Bike lanes are needed there. Bike lanes are needed all over. I think the person should have seen him. You have to use care. You have to pay attention when the cyclist is in front of you."

Speed and alcohol were not factors in the accident.

Investigators will pass their findings on to the Commonwealth's Attorney. At that point, it will be determined if charges will be filed.