Former Police Officer Charged in Fatal Bicycle Accident Involving Bradenton Man
A retired police officer has been charged in connection with the June death of Bob Blanchard, an 83-year-old avid cyclist from Bradenton, who was struck and killed during a cross-country bike ride near Bay City, Michigan.
Matt Jankowski, a former Bay City Police officer and current private investigator, faces a single count of moving violation causing death, a misdemeanor under Michigan law. The charge carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison.
Blanchard, known for his passion for cycling, had logged over 200,000 miles in his lifetime and was on a trek from Bradenton to Michigan when the fatal collision occurred. He had just achieved a major milestone, marking 200,000 miles shortly before being struck while traveling between his son’s and daughter’s homes near Bay City.
According to court records, Jankowski was reportedly distracted by an alert on his dashboard at the time of the incident. His attorney has stated that Jankowski is devastated by the tragedy and intends to fight the charge in a jury trial scheduled for January.
Blanchard’s death has left his loved ones and the cycling community in mourning. Known for his dedication and adventurous spirit, Blanchard’s loss continues to resonate deeply with his family and girlfriend, who remain heartbroken months after the incident.
The case has also sparked discussions about the adequacy of penalties for traffic violations resulting in fatalities, with critics questioning whether a misdemeanor charge is sufficient in such cases.
As the trial approaches, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance on the roads, especially as more cyclists take to long-distance travel.