Alleged Drunk Driver Hits Newport Bicyclist on West Main Road

Around 11:32 Friday night, 36-year-old Eddy Gomez of Newport was hit by an alleged drunk driver while riding his bicycle on West Main Road.  He was taken to the Newport Hospital and then to the Rhode Island Hospital.  His condition is not known at this time, but his injuries were considered major. 

The driver, Jacob Voelz, 32, of 969 West Main Road, Middletown was arrested on charges of driving while intoxicated that involve bodily harm, a felony. 

Police said when they arrived on-scene on West Main Road near Applebees,  the victim was conscious but was bleeding from his mouth and unable to respond.  There was a large dent on the passenger side of the vehicle's hood and the front windshield was severely cracked, said police. 

A witness said Volez’s car collided with the bicycle, causing it to launch in the air. Several witnesses told police that Voelz appeared to be intoxicated.

Police said when they spoke to Voelz he panicked, could not provide his town, was confused and incoherent.  He allegedly told police he had four beers in Newport after work. Police arrested him and brought him to the station where he agreed to a chemical test.  He registered a blood alcohol content of .251 and .252.   Police said he still was incoherent and asked “where he got pulled over.”

The accident is under investigation.  Patch will continue to provide updates as they are made available.

To read Bike Newport's response to the accident, click here.

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