71-Year-Old Bicyclist Killed In Hit And Run Crash In Broken Arrow

Broken Arrow Police are looking for a white Chevrolet Malibu with front end damage on the passenger side, following a fatal hit and run crash.

Earl Teske, 71, was killed Wednesday night when the bicycle he was riding was hit by a car that then fled the scene.

It happened on 101st Street between 193rd East Avenue and Lynn Lane.

Police are looking for a white 2008-2012 Chevy Malibu. They said it has damage to its front passenger side.

The exact time of the collision is unknown, but police were called around 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, when two drivers noticed a man and his bicycle in a ditch on 101st Street.

Police said Teske was riding his bicycle eastbound from Lynn Lane, when he was struck by a vehicle.

Teske was pronounced dead at the scene, and now police are looking for the driver that hit his bicycle.

"This is a dark area. There's not a lot of ambient lighting, however the bicyclist was in compliance with state law. In fact, he had a battery operated headlight as well as a flashing red light on the rear of the bicycle," said Broken Arrow Police Sergeant Ed Ferguson.

Stephen Lassiter is a biking enthusiast.

He serves on a cycling committee to help make Tulsa friendlier for bicyclists.

"You do want to have lights, you do want to have visible clothing on," Lassiter said.

Police say Teske was not wearing a helmet, but Lassiter said it's important to note state law does not require a helmet, and there's no indication that it would have saved Teske's life.

"I wear a helmet every time that I ride, but would it protect me in a crash like that? I don't know," Lassiter said.

Lassiter also said the tragedy is a reminder that bicycles are legally allowed on city streets in the Tulsa area.

He said it doesn't matter what time of day or night, drivers need to be aware of cyclists.

"When you're driving a car, the main focus should be driving and looking at what's in front of you. It's your duty to not hit other people or other objects," Lassiter said.

Anyone with information about the driver or the car can call Broken Arrow Police or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at (918) 596-COPS.