By Gina Martinez
A popular cyclist from Elmhurst died after being struck by a car on 175th Street and Union Turnpike, police said.
Philip O’Reilly, 71, was fatally struck at 11 p.m. Jan. 23 while crossing the street in Fresh Meadows after attending a St. John’s basketball game.
Police said O’Reilly he was struck by a Nissan Altima driven by a 47-year-old man who remained at the scene of the accident. Police said that the driver had the right of way and that O’Reilly crossed against a red light. Police have not charged the driver.
O’Reilly suffered severe head and leg injuries and was taken to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead the next day.
O’Reilly was a longtime cyclist and leader of the Five Borough Bicycle Club. His death has prompted an outpouring of condolences on social media.
His wake was held at the Forest Park Chapel in Forest Hills on Jan. 29
Reach Gina Martinez by email at gmart
