Salem cyclist killed in crash with car

67-year-old Richard Hawkins died from injuries sustained in the collision.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 5:05am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged bicycle wheel and frame, conveying the gritty aftermath of a collision through dramatic lighting and stark contrast.A damaged e-bike frame and wheel, a somber reminder of the dangers cyclists face on the road.Salem Today

A 67-year-old Salem man has died weeks after a collision between his e-bike and a car. Richard Hawkins was riding westbound on Union Street NE on Feb. 28 when a 21-year-old woman driving northbound on Front Street struck him. Witnesses say the light was green for the driver. Hawkins died from his injuries on March 14, and the case is now being reviewed by the Marion County District Attorney's Office.

Why it matters

Bicycle safety and the increasing prevalence of e-bikes on roads are major concerns, especially in urban areas where car-bicycle collisions can have tragic consequences. This incident highlights the need for improved infrastructure, education, and enforcement to protect vulnerable road users.

The details

According to reports, Hawkins was riding his e-bike westbound on Union Street NE when a 21-year-old woman driving northbound on Front Street struck him. Witnesses stated that the traffic light was green for the driver at the time of the collision.

  • The incident occurred on February 28, 2026.
  • Hawkins died from his injuries on March 14, 2026.

The players

Richard Hawkins

A 67-year-old Salem resident who was fatally struck while riding his e-bike.

21-year-old woman

The driver of the car that struck Hawkins while driving northbound on Front Street.

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What’s next

The Marion County District Attorney's Office is reviewing the case to determine if any charges will be filed against the driver.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for improved road safety measures, driver education, and infrastructure to protect cyclists and e-bike riders, especially in urban areas where car-bicycle collisions can have devastating consequences.