A 78-year-old bicyclist has died after being struck by a Martin County sheriff’s deputy en route to an emergency call. The victim, Harold Bennett, passed away in the hospital days after the incident. Authorities are investigating the crash as the community mourns the loss of a beloved resident.

78-Year-Old Bicyclist Struck by Martin County Deputy En Route to Crash Dies in Hospital

Martin County, FL – July 26, 2025 – A tragic incident has claimed the life of a 78-year-old bicyclist who was struck by a Martin County Sheriff's Office deputy while the deputy was responding to an emergency call. The man, whose identity has not yet been released pending family notification, succumbed to his injuries at the hospital, officials confirmed late Friday evening.

The collision occurred around 7:15 a.m. Thursday near the intersection of Kanner Highway (State Road 76) and Pratt Whitney Road. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the deputy was responding to a crash with lights and sirens activated when the accident happened. The elderly cyclist was reportedly attempting to cross the intersection when he was hit.

Emergency crews were on the scene within minutes, and the bicyclist was transported via ambulance to Cleveland Clinic Martin North Hospital in Stuart. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he died from his injuries early Friday morning.

“This is a heartbreaking situation for everyone involved,” said Martin County Sheriff William Snyder in a statement released Saturday morning. “Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the victim’s family. The deputy involved is devastated, and we are providing him with support as this investigation continues.”

Authorities say the deputy, who has not been named publicly, was driving a marked patrol vehicle and had been responding to a reported crash involving injuries a few miles away. Investigators from the Florida Highway Patrol are leading the inquiry into the incident, as is standard protocol when a law enforcement vehicle is involved in a fatal collision.

At this stage, officials have not indicated whether speed or road conditions played a role in the crash. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses and the dash cam from the patrol vehicle have been secured and are being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.

Local residents who frequently cycle in the area expressed concerns about safety on the highway, particularly at intersections where bicycle crossings can be hazardous.

“I bike here every day, and it’s not easy,” said James Rowley, a local cyclist and retiree. “There’s not enough signage or protection for people on bikes, especially older folks. It’s tragic, and it could’ve been any of us.”

The Martin County Sheriff’s Office has pledged full transparency as the investigation proceeds. They confirmed that the deputy has been placed on administrative leave, which is standard policy following incidents involving serious injury or death.

This marks the second traffic-related fatality involving a cyclist in Martin County this month, prompting renewed calls for improved infrastructure and driver awareness on local roads.

No charges have been filed as of Saturday, and the Florida Highway Patrol stated that a final report, including any recommendations for disciplinary action or charges, will be completed in the coming weeks.

Community members and local cycling groups are planning a candlelight vigil in honor of the victim, scheduled for Monday evening at Memorial Park in Stuart.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant dashcam footage is urged to contact the Florida Highway Patrol or the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.