HANCOCK COUNTY— A 76-year-old Hancock County man was out for a bike ride in the country late-Wednesday morning when he was struck and killed.
Investigators say the vehicle that hit Rodger Wellenreiter of Greenfield was driven by a man suspected of being drunk and driving on a suspended license.
The suspect, a 40-year-old Greenfield man, was arrested and is facing preliminary charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated Causing Death along with Driving With a Suspended License Causing Death, both felonies.
According to the Hancock County Sheriff's Department, Wellenreiter was riding his bike westbound on County Road 300 North and was hit from behind by a vehicle also heading west. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The suspect was not injured and stayed at the scene.
"The Hancock County Sheriff's Department continues to remind motorists and bicyclists to share the roadway and be aware as you travel the roadways," said Major Robert Campbell. "We remind motorists to give bicycles at least three feet of space when passing, and bicyclists, please follow the traffic laws and wear your helmet."
