Reward Increases in Search for Hit-And-Run Driver Who Struck Bicyclist

The reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of an SUV driver who hit a bicyclist last month near the Patuxent River Bridge in Edgewater and fled into Prince George’s County has climbed to $10,000.

A Honda sport utility vehicle traveling westbound on Central Avenue in Davidsonville near the bridge struck two bicyclists at about 5:09 p.m. Feb. 22. The SUV failed to stop and continued west on Central Avenue into Prince George’s County.

A bike ridden by Lynn Carol Kristianson, 62, of Arlington, VA, was struck by a white or silver SUV that left the scene. Maile Catherine Neel, 52, of University Park, was riding immediately behind Kristianson and also crashed. After the collision, Kristianson’s bike came to rest in the roadway and was struck by a 2005 Chevy Impala driven by Tierra Lesley Harris, 21, of Oxon Hill.

Witnesses said the suspect’s SUV was driven by a white man, 50 to 60 years old, with a gray mustache and dark glasses. Police believe the suspect vehicle is a 1995 to 2001 Honda CR-V with damage on the right side, and a missing right-side mirror.

Both bicyclists were treated at area hospitals, while the driver of the Chevy Impala was not injured.

Police believe driver error caused the crash, and that sun glare may have been a factor. The driver failed to yield to the bicyclists lawfully using the roadway. Speed does not appear to be a factor in the collision.

Metro Crime Stoppers is offering cash reward of up to $2,000 for the arrest and indictment of the person(s) responsible for this incident. In addition, the family and friends of the victim have offered an additional $8,000 reward for information that leads the arrest and conviction in this case.

Call toll free 1-866-7LOCKUP or text “MCS plus your message” to CRIMES (274637) or visit www.metrocrimestoppers.org.