Authorities in Cranston are investigating a fatal crash involving a bicyclist that occurred Monday night, according to police.
The Cranston Police Department said officers responded to a report of a person down in the roadway near the intersection of Wellington Avenue and Well Avenue. When first responders arrived, they found an adult male with serious injuries.
The individual was later identified as 58-year-old Michael Ouellet. Emergency personnel transported him to Rhode Island Hospital for treatment, where he was later pronounced dead, officials confirmed.
Preliminary findings indicate that Ouellet was walking his bicycle in the roadway at the time of the incident. Investigators reported that he was struck by a vehicle traveling in the same direction. Police noted that the bicycle, described as a black-and-white mountain bike with reflectors, showed damage consistent with being hit from behind.
Authorities identified the driver involved as 21-year-old Kelvin Santana of Cranston. According to police, the driver initially left the scene but later returned and has since cooperated with investigators.
Officials said the vehicle involved sustained visible damage and has been taken to Cranston Police Headquarters for further examination.
Police stated that impairment is not believed to be a factor in the crash based on initial assessments. However, investigators noted that the area where the incident occurred was poorly lit, with reports of several non-functioning streetlights. Weather conditions at the time included light snow flurries, which may also be reviewed as part of the investigation.
The case remains active as authorities continue to gather evidence, review conditions at the scene, and determine the full sequence of events. Officials noted that potential charges, whether criminal or civil, will depend on the outcome of the investigation.
The Cranston Police Department is asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward. Detectives say public assistance can be valuable in helping to clarify what occurred.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the department’s Traffic Unit. Authorities say updates will be shared as more details become available.
