Vehicular Homicide, DUI Charges Filed In CHOP Doctor's Cycling Death

PHILADELPHIA — Homicide by vehicle, DUI, involuntary manslaughter, and numerous other charges have been filed in connection with the death of Dr. Barbara Friedes, who was fatally struck by a vehicle as she rode her bike last week in the Center City area.

Philadelphia authorities Thursday said Michael Vahey, 68, is charged in relation to the Wednesday crash that took the life of Friedes, a pediatric cancer doctor at CHOP.

District Attorney Larry Krasner said his office is seeking $1 million bail and that additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.

The fatal crash occurred at about 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 17 at 1800 Spruce St. in Rittenhouse Square, police said.

Friedes was riding her bike heading west in the designated bike lane on Spruce when she was struck by a Volkswagen driven by Vahey that was also going west on Spruce and illegally in the bike lane, according to the DA's office.

Police said Friedes, who was wearing a helmet and riding in the bike line, was thrown at least 150 feet.

She was given aid at the scene by police. Friedes suffered severe head trauma and was taken to Jefferson Hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 7:20 p.m.

Two other vehicles were struck in the crash.

Vahey was taken to a hospital after the crash, but was released Monday. He turned himself in to authorities Wednesday.

According to authorities, Vahey's blood alcohol content was 0.16 percent, twice the legal limit, and that he was going about 60 miles per hour in a 25 mile per hour zone at the time of the crash. He nearly struck another pedestrian, authorities said.

Vahey has no prior criminal history, authorities said Thursday.

Anyone who has information related to the fatal crash is asked to contact Philadelphia authorities to aid in the investigation.