ID Of Bicyclist Fatally Struck By Accused DUI Driver Released: PD

WALLINGFORD, CT — A bicyclist from Milford has been killed after being struck by a vehicle driven by an accused DUI driver Saturday afternoon, Wallingford Police say.

Donald A. Carrelli, 37, of Milford was riding his bicycle around 3 p.m. when he was struck by a vehicle driven by Derek C. Fries, 35, of Meriden, who has been charged with manslaughter and DUI, police said. Fries is currently free on a $25,000 bond.

The "collision" occurred on South Turnpike Road in Wallingford, approximately 175 feet north of its intersection with Toelles Road, immediately north of the North Haven Town Line, police said.

"The investigation, which is ongoing, revealed that the operator of a gray colored 2009 Honda Civic sedan, identified as Derek C. Fries, age 35, of Meriden, was traveling southbound on South Turnpike Road when the vehicle he was operating left the single southbound travel lane of South Turnpike Road and crossed over the double yellow center line,"Lt. Anthony DeMaio said. "The vehicle then entered and crossed over the northbound travel lane where it struck one of two northbound bicyclists that were riding along the right hand shoulder and within the fog line."

After Carrelli was struck he ended up on the hood of the vehicle and was thrown down an embankment, police said.

Police said several people witnessed the accident and provided first aid to Carrelli. Carrelli was pronounced dead at Yale-New Haven Hospital a short time later.

Fries is charged with second-degree manslaughter with a motor vehicle, DUI, failure to drive in proper lane, illegal possession of narcotics (heroin), and possession of drug paraphernalia. He will be appear in court on June 7.

Anyone who witnessed this collision is encouraged to call Officer James Knowlton at 203-294-2818 or Lt. Anthony DeMaio at 203-294-2838.