Richard Kenneth Douglas Willis Death News – Authorities in Port St. Lucie are investigating a fatal collision involving an electric bicycle and a pickup truck that occurred at the intersection of Northeast Floresta Drive and Northeast Airoso Boulevard. According to a preliminary report from the Port St. Lucie Police Department, the crash took place shortly after noon on November 11. The victim, identified as 35-year-old Richard Kenneth Douglas Willis, was riding an electric bicycle southbound on the east sidewalk of Airoso Boulevard when the incident occurred.
Police said a 2018 Dodge Ram pickup truck, which was towing a 2021 flat utility trailer carrying a skid steer, was traveling west on Floresta Drive. As the truck approached the intersection, it made a right turn onto Airoso Boulevard. Investigators believe that as the vehicle turned, the electric bike failed to properly navigate the curve of the sidewalk and veered off course. The bike then collided with the metal loading ramp located at the rear passenger side of the trailer, according to Master Sgt. Dominick Mesiti, a department spokesperson.
The impact caused Willis to be thrown from the bike, resulting in serious injuries. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and transported him to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce, where he was later pronounced deceased.
Authorities confirmed that the driver of the pickup truck remained on the scene and cooperated fully with the investigation. Police have not indicated that any citations or charges have been issued at this time.
Witnesses told investigators that the electric bike appeared to be traveling at approximately 30 miles per hour prior to the crash, a speed that may have contributed to the difficulty in maneuvering the turn. Officers continue to examine all factors involved, including speed, road design, and visibility at the intersection, to determine the sequence of events that led to the collision.
The Traffic Homicide Investigation Unit of the Port St. Lucie Police Department is leading the case. Officials are asking anyone who may have seen the crash or who has video footage of the area around the time of the incident to come forward. Those with information are encouraged to contact Officer Brian Thompson at 772-871-5001 or reach out anonymously through Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 800-273-8477.
Community members have expressed sympathy and sadness following the tragic loss. Many residents noted that both Airoso Boulevard and Floresta Drive are busy roadways where drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians must share limited space. Some also raised concerns about safety for e-bike riders, particularly as their popularity continues to rise in Florida communities.
Authorities have taken this opportunity to remind residents of the importance of road awareness and caution, especially when operating or riding electric bicycles, which can reach higher speeds than traditional bicycles. They also advised both cyclists and motorists to remain alert at intersections and driveways, where most such accidents tend to occur.
As part of the ongoing investigation, police are reviewing potential contributing factors such as lighting, traffic flow, and environmental conditions at the time of the crash. Officials said the process will take time as they piece together the evidence and finalize their report.
The Port St. Lucie Police Department extended condolences to Willis’s family and friends, noting the incident as a tragic reminder of the risks faced by road users.
The department also encouraged the community to respect ongoing investigative procedures and avoid speculation while detectives continue their work. Updates are expected to be shared with the public once additional details are confirmed.
