67-year-old cyclist Gerry Lee Depagter fatally struck by two vehicles on Old Main Road in Pembroke
A tragic accident on Tuesday evening resulted in the death of a cyclist in Pembroke, North Carolina. According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP), the incident occurred at around 5:44 p.m. on Old Main Road. The cyclist, identified as 67-year-old Gerry Lee Depagter, was traveling westbound alongside two vehicles when the fatal collision occurred.
1st Sgt. S.B. Lewis of the NCSHP reported that Depagter was not wearing reflective clothing nor using lights on his bicycle, which made him difficult to see as daylight faded. The first vehicle struck Depagter because the driver could not see him in time. As the driver attempted to pull over after the collision, a second vehicle, unable to react quickly enough, also hit Depagter. Both drivers escaped the incident uninjured.
Depagter was pronounced dead at the scene. The NCSHP concluded that neither speed nor impairment played a role in the accident. The investigation determined that poor visibility was the primary factor contributing to the collision, as the lack of reflective gear and lighting on Depagter’s bicycle made it difficult for drivers to see him until it was too late.
This incident highlights the significant dangers cyclists face, especially during low-light conditions. It underscores the crucial importance of cyclists wearing high-visibility gear, equipping their bicycles with lights, and adhering to safety measures designed to protect them on shared roadways. Motorists are also reminded to remain vigilant and cautious, particularly in areas where cyclists may be present.
Old Main Road, the site of the accident, serves as a sobering reminder of the shared responsibility between cyclists and drivers to ensure road safety. The NCSHP’s findings reinforce that even under routine driving conditions, accidents can have devastating consequences. The incident also emphasizes the need for improved cycling infrastructure, such as dedicated bike lanes and better roadway lighting, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In response to Depagter’s death, local officials and community members may consider launching initiatives to enhance road safety. These could include distributing reflective gear, organizing educational workshops on cycling safety, and advocating for better infrastructure. For the Pembroke community, the loss of Depagter is not only a profound tragedy but also a call to action to promote safer coexistence between cyclists and drivers on public roads.
As the community mourns the loss of Gerry Lee Depagter, the incident serves as a poignant reminder of the need for ongoing efforts to improve road safety for all users. Local officials and community members are urged to work together to prevent similar accidents and ensure that such a tragedy does not happen again.
