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Crime News Metro/State

Charge filed after driver hits, kills 83-year-old bicyclist in Archer Heights

The driver allegedly told police he pulled forward when the light turned green and did not see the cyclist.

By  David Struett
   
SHARE Charge filed after driver hits, kills 83-year-old bicyclist in Archer Heights
Chicago police investigate the scene of a fatal traffic crash August 21, 2020, in Archer Heights.

Chicago police investigate the scene of a fatal traffic crash August 21, 2020, in Archer Heights.

Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times

A man was allegedly driving on a suspended license Friday when he struck and killed an 83-year-old bicyclist in Archer Heights on the Southwest Side.

Mario Aguilar pulled forward when a traffic light turned green in the 5100 block of West Archer Heights and struck the bicyclist in the intersection, according to Chicago police.

He allegedly claimed he did not see the cyclist.

The cyclist, Jan Kopec of Archer Heights, was pronounced dead at the scene, police and the Cook County medical examiner’s office said. His death was ruled accidental.

Police said Aguilar did not show signs of impairment after the crash.

Aguilar is charged with a felony count of driving on a license revoked or suspended license because of a prior DUI.

He was released on bond and is due back in court Aug. 28, according to court records.

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