Driver kills cyclist in hit and run

NEWPORT BEACH — A man who was out for an early morning bike ride Wednesday has died from injuries sustained when he was hit by an SUV that then fled the scene.

Patricia Ann Izquieta - Mugshot - COURTESY ORANGE COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY

Shortly after 6 a.m. Dec. 9, Patricia Ann Izquieta, 37, of Riverside, was arrested for a hit and run violation after leaving behind the cyclist she had run down while making “an unsafe turning maneuver,” according to police.

The male cyclist, 49-year-old Donald Murphy of Irvine, was transported to Western Medical Center for treatment but reportedly succumbed to his injuries. Murphy was wearing a helmet at the time of the collision and lawfully riding in the bike lane when he was hit.

The incident occurred near Jamboree Road north of Ford Road, where Izquieta ran her 2007 Saturn Vue into Murphy before continuing on her way.

Witnesses reported to the Orange County Register that Murphy’s bike ended up far from the scene of the impact, being pulled by the car and sending up sparks. A “300-yard pattern of debris” was also reportedly left in the SUV’s wake.

Izquieta was booked but has now posted bond and been released from the county jail in Santa Ana.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing and Izquieta may face additional charges, authorities said. Any witnesses to the collision are encouraged to call NBPD Detective Bill Beverly at (949) 644-3747.