Bicyclist killed in crash in East Haven

EAST HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- A bicyclist was killed after colliding with a car on Coe Avenue in East Haven Monday.

Neighbors were in shock when they recognized the twisted metal and shattered frame of their friend's bike. Witnesses say they saw the man being loaded onto a stretcher, but police say he did not survive.

"Oh my God, I couldn't believe the bike all cracked up and the back rim was cut in half," said Dan Barcomb, "and it's hard to believe someone was on the bicycle when you see it in four pieces."

It happened just before noon. Police say when the minivan and the bicyclist collided on Coe Ave., the van flipped out of control taking out a power poll.

Witnesses say the driver and two passengers had to climb through the broken glass to get out before they were taken to the hospital.

"All the people in the van, I got here just after they had got them out and they were all lined up on the curb crying," said Barcomb.

The East Haven accident reconstruction team was trying to put the pieces together and figure out just what happened. The road is posted 25 mph, but people who live in the area say it can be a race track.

"It is just an easy street to fly down," said Ryan Zisi. "It's a straight away and there are stop signs, but people blow them."

"It makes you think you need to be more careful when you are driving," said Andrew Marinaro.

"It's an eye opener that it can happen to anyone at any time," said Michelle Nuzello. "I have an 8-year-old son who rides his bike."

Anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information is asked to contact Officer Paulson or Officer Tracy at the East Haven Police Department at 203-468-3820.