Pleasant Hill bicyclist killed in collision with big-rig truck
Martin Nelis of Pleasant Hill was killed on his bicycle in a collision with a big rig truck on Aug 3.
LAFAYETTE, Calif. (KTVU/BCN) - A bicyclist killed in a collision with a big-rig in Lafayette Thursday afternoon has been identified as 54-year-old Martin Nelis, a Pleasant Hill resident and city official.
Officers received a report at 12:28 p.m. of a possible hit-and-run collision involving a big-rig and a bicyclist in the 1800 block of Reliez Valley Road. Authorities responded and found an injured male bicyclist on the ground. Nelis was treated on the scene by emergency responders and then taken to John Muir Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.
Nelis had worked as the public information officer for the city of Pleasant Hill since 2007. He played a leading role in organizing several community events, according to a city statement on his death, including the summer concert series, Community Service Day, Off the Grid food truck events and programs with the library and local schools.
"Martin was often the first to volunteer for any civic event or meeting, and the last to leave and turn off the lights," the city statement said.
"This is a huge loss for the city," said Mayor Tim Flaherty. "Martin was the quintessential dedicated public servant, and a wonderful member of the community."
Police have interviewed the driver and impounded the truck, officials said. The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information about it is asked to call the Police Department at (925) 283-3680.