Bloomington Man Charged After Hitting Bicyclist, Fleeing Scene

Matthew Alford, 26, faces felony charges for leaving the scene of an accident that caused moderate injuries.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A 26-year-old Bloomington, Indiana man has been charged with a felony for allegedly hitting a bicyclist with his car and then fleeing the scene. According to court documents, Matthew Alford struck the bicyclist on South Smith Road, causing multiple lacerations and severe injuries to the victim's hands, legs, and ankle. Alford later admitted to officers that he had hit the cyclist but left because he "wasn't feeling well."

Why it matters

Hit-and-run incidents involving vehicles and bicyclists are a growing concern in many communities, as they put vulnerable road users at risk and raise questions about driver accountability and public safety. This case highlights the need for stronger enforcement and education around the responsibilities of drivers when involved in a collision.

The details

Police were called to the intersection of South Smith Road and East Cobble Creek Drive after receiving a report of a hit-and-run crash. When officers arrived, they spoke with the injured bicyclist, who had sustained multiple lacerations and severe bruising. A witness corroborated that the driver, later identified as Matthew Alford, made no attempt to stop and continued driving away. Alford was later found at his home, where he allegedly told police that he had hit the cyclist but left because he "wasn't feeling well."

  • On February 19, 2026, Bloomington police responded to the reported hit-and-run crash.

The players

Matthew Alford

A 26-year-old Bloomington, Indiana resident who has been charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Moderate Bodily Injury, a Level 6 Felony.

Bloomington Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the hit-and-run incident and charged Alford with the felony offense.

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What they’re saying

“I had been driving my car, and felt something pop, I then hit a lady on a bike, but went home because I wasn't feeling well.”

— Matthew Alford (Court Documents)

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to allow Alford to be released on bail as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the serious consequences drivers can face for fleeing the scene of a collision, especially one that results in injury to a vulnerable road user like a bicyclist. It also highlights the need for greater education and enforcement around driver responsibilities to stop and render aid when involved in an accident.